Red Sox trade outfielder Josh Reddick for Reliever Andrew Bailey

The Boston Red Sox pulled off a big trade that will bolster their bullpen. They traded a mediocre outfielder for an all-star caliber closer. Josh Reddick is a 25 year old outfielder coming off the best season of his career. In 87 games, he hit .280 with 7 homers. He is not a great player. He will not be a great hitter. However, the Oakland Athletics knew they would not be able to pay Andrew Bailey, their closer, when his contract expired.

Andrew Bailey has pitched for three years with the Oakland Athletics. The biggest risk with Bailey is injury problems. He has frequently had elbow and shoulder problems. However, when Bailey is healthy, he is one of the best pitchers. In his 2009 rookie season, he pitched to a 1.84 ERA and .88 WHIP and he saved 26 games. In 2010, he pitched to a 1.47 ERA and .96 WHIP. He saved 25 games last year. Last year, he saved 24 games, pitching to a 3.24 ERA and 1.10 ERA.

At only 27 years old, Bailey should be entering the prime of his career. The Red Sox lost their former closer Jonathon Papelbon to the Philadelphia Phillies. If Bailey stays healthy, he could fill in nicely for Papelbon.