Will the Red Sox open the season with more than one lefty in the bullpen?
Brandon: I think the Red Sox could make a move at the trade deadline for a veteran lefty. Robby Scott still scares me, no matter what stat you throw at me. Could Brian Johnson be an option? Maybe Jalen Beeks? At this point, the left handed reliever situation for Boston is a black hole that should be avoided as much as possible until Dave Dombrowski finds a deal out there. Keep an eye out for a deal involving Swihart in exchange for a reliable lefty.
Rick: If you sacrifice a dependable righty just for the sake of having a questionable lefty you dig a pitching grave. Just think Fernando Abad.
Jake: While I’m not entirely comfortable with it, I think Robby Scott will open as the lone lefty in the bullpen. The righty options in the pen can also get out lefties to a good degree, so I don’t think it will be too much of an issue, but it seems like a lot of pressure to put on Scott. Look out for Bobby Poyner, who had a strong season in the minors and looks great this spring, as a possible mid-season call-up.
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Josh: I’m comfortable with Robby Scott as the lone lefty. If the Red Sox bullpen can avoid injury, then it will be packed with talent, and with guys who work well against lefties and righties. I just don’t really see the need for an extra specialist this season.
Hunter: I believe Roenis Elias or Johnson will go into the season as an extra left-handed bullpen arm. How long they last there comes into question when other pitchers starting returning from injury though.
Bryson: Yes, they will, but it will be an inside arm as opposed to an outside arm Scott is going to make the roster no matter how bad he pitches this spring. After that, I believe that Elias has a great shot at cracking the roster, but he will have to fight with Johnson, who does not have any options left. Johnson will likely make the roster whether it is the fifth starting spot, or a reliever arm. But when everybody is healthy, Johnson will be in the bullpen for the Red Sox.
Stephen: I was hoping the Red Sox were going to acquire Tony Watson, but making J.D. the priority was obviously the right move. Also, I think Johnson could end up being a long reliever/ specialist this year. I would avoid using him in high leverage situations though.