Daniel Bard Optioned to AA Portland, Stephen Drew Starts Season on DL
March 24, 2013; Clearwater, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Daniel Bard (51) throws a pitch during the fifth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Bright House Networks Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Daniel Bard had to have a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach this spring. In eight Grapefruit League appearances, he clocked in with a chubby 6.75 ERA over just eight innings of work. Wednesday’s outing against the Florida Marlins – 3 hits, 3 runs and walk in an inning of work – sealed his fate. In the end Bard once again struggled mightily and lost – at least for now. Today the Red Sox sent Daniel Bard to the AA Portland Seadogs. Clayton Mortensen now gets the nod and fills the roster spot.
We’ve all had that feeling. It’s that feeling before you get sent to the Principal’s office or when your dad is waiting up for you because your missed curfew by an hour. Only this screw up means your reputation and potentially your livelihood. You did it yourself and you know you’re in for it.
It could not have been a comfortable meeting that Bard had with Sox manager John Farrell and pitching coach Juan Nieves on Thursday. What he is left with, just as a he did last year, are what ifs and where do I go from here moments. He’s a good guy. He works hard. He just can’t seem to get his mojo back.
Stephen Drew, who sustained a concussion on March 7, was placed on the seven-day disabled list retroactive to March 27. Drew’s return to the lineup will be important since feather weight hitting SS Jose Iglesis won’t be able to hold on for long.
Bard and Drew were the bad and ugly. Perhaps Boston’s projected Opening Day lineup with (drum roll please) Jackie Bradley in left field will be the good.
Boston’s projected starting Opening Day lineup against the New York Yankees and CC Sabathia:
1. CF: Jacoby Ellsbury
2. RF: Shane Victorino
3. 2B: Dustin Pedroia
4. 1B: Mike Napoli
5. 3B: Will Middlebrooks
6. DH: Jonny Gomes
7. C: Jarrod Saltalamacchia
8. LF: Jackie Bradley Jr.
9. SS: Jose Iglesias
SP: Jon Lester
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