Update: Wright headed to Pawtucket, Bard up from Portland.

April 23, 2013; Boston, MA USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Steven Wright (35) pitches during the fourth inning against the Oakland Athletics at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Steven Wright, who made his Major League debut last night against the Athletics, was swiftly optioned to AAA Pawtucket following the game. Wright was acquired from Cleveland at last year’s trade deadline for former top Red Sox prospect, Lars Anderson. Wright was borderline dreadful in his first taste of Major League action, getting tagged for six hits and five earned runs in 3.2 innings of work. It wasn’t all negative for the knuckleballer though,  as he struck out four and managed to keep the rest of the bullpen intact, due to being the last pitcher in the game before it was called on account of rain.

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

To take his place on the roster, Daniel Bard is being recalled from AA Portland. Bard is one of the few pitchers who are already on the 40-man roster, and have some experience at the Major League level. Bard hasn’t exactly been impressive and overwhelming for the Sea Dogs, having given up eight hits, five walks and five runs (four earned) in nine innings pitched. That said, he has put together a string of five appearances, totaling six innings, without allowing an earned run. Bard probably won’t be immediately thrust into high leverage situations, but some solid performances in relief would be great for his confidence and for the Boston bullpen.