Boston Red Sox bullpen rankings: Top 21
By Rick McNair
Number 16
Boston Stats (1978-82): 21-12 W/L, 231 G (1 GS), 411 IP, 409 H, 98 BB, 217 K, 2.72 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, 40 SV.
A prototypical situational left-hander who played 17 seasons. Not overpowering, but could hit location and change speeds. Could close when necessary and did rather well when he took over that role in 1980. Had only two blown saves in 26 chances. Made the All-Star team.
Number 15
Boston Stats (1974-75, 1978-80): 30-29 W/L, 206 G (29 GS), 547.1 IP, 517 H, 184 BB, 305 K, 3.55 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 41 SV.
A player often overlooked, but very dependable in any role. Would make an occasional start since he originally was a starter with the Royals. The right-hander was part of the 1975 team and did lose a game in the WS that season.
Number 14
Boston Stats (2011-14): 13-12 W/L, 157 G (12 GS), 178.1 IP, 155 H, 91 BB, 218 K, 3.79 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 0 SV.
Sometimes a pitcher finds a comfortable spot and that was Miller. When the Red Sox pushed him into the bullpen it was a startling career makeover. A devastating set-up pitcher who became a fine closer with the Yankees. This may have been the biggest off-season 2014-15 mistake by Boston – not signing free agent Miller.
Number 13
Boston Stats (2003-08): 30-22 W/L, 394 G, 409 IP, 422 H, 98 BB, 273 K, 3.76 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 27 SV.
Timlin could close when necessary, but his focus was on late game support or set-up. Member of 2004 and 2007 championship teams. A well respected professional that closed out an 18-year career in Boston.
Number 12
Boston Stats (1977-81): 28-19 W/L, 192 G, 335 IP, 318 H, 142 BB, 240 K, 1.37 WHIP, 51 SV.
The first big free agent signing for Boston with a five-year one million dollar deal. Big money back then. His first season in Boston led the AL in saves (31) while pitching 140 innings. That started a road to ruin as Campbell was bothered by persistent arm issues for the rest of his career. “Soup” could mix up his pitches and displayed equally proficient against right and left-hand hitters.