Bullpen positives and negatives

Look on the bright side. When it comes to the Sox best relief pitchers, all are home grown.

Yet, outside of Jonathan Papelbon, Daniel Bard and Manny Delcarmen there has not been a lot to like about the Sox bullpen this year. You probably had the feeling, as I did, heading into the season that the relief corps would be somewhat of a problem when the big decision heading out of Fort Myers was whether to carry Scott Schoeneweis or Scott Atchison.

Into the second week of June, the Sox bullpen has an ERA of 4.24. Compare that to the strong relief that a team like the Padres are getting (2.70 ERA) or or the Rays (3.23) and you see just how far off the pace Boston has fallen in an area that presumably was a strength coming into the season and was a relative strength last year (3.80 ERA).

How About That Papelbon, Can — Or Should — Darnell Fit in Boston?

How About That Papelbon? For two seasons now, the Sox have agonized in their decision whether to pop the engagement question or consult a lawyer about divorce arrangements concerning Jon Papelbon. Given his struggles thus far this season, their deliberations have only grown more urgent as to whether or not they should cut ties with their closer. Either way, whatever the powers that be may decide, fans should not lament what they are getting from Papelbon in the ninth inning.

Concern for Papelbon?

Jonathan Papelbon is one of, if not the best closer in baseball. Of that there is no doubt. You don't have to look much farther than his 89% save rate (118 out of 133 since 2006), 1.84 career ERA, and 4.79 K/BB rate to make that assessment. Throw in the fact that he's not allowed a run in 25 career postseason innings over 16 appearances and his name stands alone with Mariano Rivera at the top of a long list of closers you would take with you to the end without reservation.

At the surface, 2009 has been more of the same for Papelbon. He's closed the door in save situations five times in five opportunities while amassing a 1.94 ERA. But a deeper look should give you pause to think twice about thinking that 2009 Papelbon has been as effective as previous years' versions.

Red Sox Madness Round 2: Pedroia vs. Papelbon

The first #1 seed has fallen in the 2009 Red Sox Madness tournament. Jacoby Ellsbury continued his Cinderella story this tournament as he knocked off the overall #1 seed David Ortiz in a 55-46 shocker and becomes the first entrant to the Final Four.

Today we move on to the next second round matchup featuring the reigning AL MVP, Dustin Pedroia, against one of the most dominant pitchers in the game, Jonathan Papelbon. Think there will be any trash talking between these two?

Remember, the simple question is "who's success is more important to the overall success of the Boston Red Sox in 2009?" Vote away!