Red Sox Sign a Familiar Name

After speculation last week that the Red Sox were interested in bringing in a lefty for the bullpen, the Red Sox brought back a recognizable face. The Sox have signed Alan Embree to a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training. The 40-year old will return to Boston where he spent parts of 4 seasons with the Sox, used primarily as a lefty specialist.Embree has become a floater since leaving the Red Sox, playing in New York, San Diego, Oakland and Colorado. In 2009, Embree finished 2-2 with a 5.84 era as a member of the Rockies in 36 appearances. He will have the opportunity to be on the major league roster if he can get some work in the last two weeks of Spring.

Part of the impetus for bringing in Embree was Dustin Richardson’s poor performance and injury this Spring Training and Embree’s extensive post-season experience. His career playoff numbers in 31 games are 1-0 with a 1.66 era and 4 ERs in 21.2 innings. Embree will be wearing his old number 43, and will join the Red Sox within the next few days.

Only time will tell if this move pays dividends for the Red Sox, but adding pitching depth, even if it is Embree, is a positive move in the long run.