During a conference call last night, Bailey said several times how excited he was to be joining the Red Sox.
“I think every kid playing tee-ball out there strives to pitch in the postseason and meaningful games in September and ultimately the World Series,’’ he said. “I’m going to welcome that with open arms. There is nothing like the atmosphere of running in from the bullpen at Fenway Park.’’
In Bailey and righthander Mark Melancon, who was obtained from Houston two weeks ago, Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington has obtained two young, cost-effective late-inning relievers without giving up any top prospects.
“Andrew’s a proven, top-quality closer in the American League,’’ said Cherington. “He’s done it for three years and had a lot of success. He’s converted a very high percentage of his opportunities. We really like his makeup for Boston.
“He can fit very well into our team and into our clubhouse.’’
Bailey has 75 career saves, a 2.07 earned run average, and a 0.95 WHIP. He has 174 strikeouts in 174 career innings.
Bailey had a rough 2011. He strained his forearm in spring training and did not come off the disabled list until May 29. He had a 1.85 ERA through Aug. 9 before allowing 11 earned runs in the 13 games that followed.
There are health issues. Bailey had Tommy John elbow surgery in 2005 while at Wagner College. He also had an elbow procedure in September 2010 and offseason knee surgery in 2009.
“We had a chance to look into Bailey’s medical history and get to know a lot more about what he’s gone through,’’ Cherington said. “We’re very confident that he will come into camp ready to go.’’
“I’m feeling good,’’ said Bailey. “This is the first healthy offseason I’ve had since I’ve been in the big leagues.
“I’ve been able to get after it from day one. Knock on wood, I’m healthy and strong.’’
Oakland executives also had concerns about Bailey’s weight, as he was over 250 pounds at times last season.
But the Red Sox needed a closer, and Bailey came at a far cheaper price than any of the free agents on the market. He is arbitration-eligible for the first time and stands to make approximately $3.5 million.
