Bailey begins throwing program: WEEI.com reports Red Sox closer Andrew Bailey (thumb) has started a throwing program as the team's spring complex in Fort Myers. Bailey has progressed to throwing from 60 feet on flat ground. (Updated 05/23/2012)
Injury Report
Thumb - 60-day DL. Out until at least late July (Updated - 5/8/12)
Fantasy Analysis
Bailey is in the early stages of his throwing program. He will now have to build up his arm strength. Bailey isn't expected back until July, so he still has many hurdles left in his recovery. He should return to the closer's role once active, so stash Bailey in deep Fantasy formats. (Updated 05/23/2012).
04/04/2012 16:54 Transaction roundup: Brandon Belt makes the cut
Despite fears and hand-wringing, first baseman Brandon Belt has made the San Francisco Giants' 25-man roster, plus other wheelings and dealings from the final day of spring training.
04/04/2012 14:36 Red Sox name Alfredo Aceves closer
Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine chose right-hander Alfredo Aceves to close over Mark Melancon in the absence of Andrew Bailey.
04/03/2012 21:24 Injury roundup: No surgery for Josh Beckett
Red Sox right-hander Josh Beckett learned today that he won't require surgery on his injured thumb, plus more injury-related news and notes.
After bursting onto the scene in 2009 as the American League Rookie of the Year, Bailey has been a mild disappointment in Fantasy. He's been hampered by injuries, and when he has been healthy, the A's haven't provided him with many save opportunities. The latter could change in 2012, as he is now the Red Sox's closer, having been acquired by Boston in a December deal. Assuming he can avoid the disabled list, Bailey's owners can look forward to good strikeout and walk rates, though his propensity for flyballs may hurt him more at Fenway Park than it did in Oakland Coliseum. Bailey should be a solid contributor in mixed leagues, but without a top-notch strikeout rate (like Craig Kimbrel) or ground ball rate (like Brian Wilson), he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy relief pitcher. (Updated 2/21/12)