Franklin Morales to Join Sox Bullpen on Tuesday

Franklin Morales‘ long trip back from the DL ends on Tuesday night. He’ll join Boston’s bullpen in Philadelphia as the Red Sox continue their two at home, two in Philly four game series.

Aug 23, 2012; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Franklin Morales (46) pitches against the Los Angeles Angels during the first inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

Since the end of last season, Morales has unfortunately hit the injury trifecta, suffering shoulder weakness at the end of the 2012 season, back stiffness during spring training that sidelined him, which when cleared, turned into a left pec injury that has kept him sidelined for the past month.

Morales has pitched well lately in the minors but has been marginally effective for the Red Sox during his two-year tenure. As a member of the Red Sox, Morales is 4-5 with 3.70 ERA. These numbers are better than his five-year stint in Colorado with the Rockies where he was 7-11 with a 4.89 ERA.

Even with those numbers Morales could be effective if used judiciously since he’d be another left hander in Boston’s bullpen with decent velocity and seasoned MLB experience. Look at the last 10 world championship teams and you’ll see an army of arms that contributed to the overall effort. Morales could be one of those foot soldiers.

With Morales headed to the bullpen someone will have to exit an already crowded house. Likely candidates would be Alex Wilson, Alfredo Aceves and Clayton Mortensen. Who do you think will go down to the farm?