Foulke placed on DL; Questions remain about the bullpen

The Red Sox announced today that they will be placing Keith Foulke on the disabled list. After an ending to last night’s game in Texas that Forrest Gump could have predicted, Foulke was flown back to Boston to have his knee examined. There are rumblings that surgery may be necessary, though its type and complexity are unknown. It’s unfortunate that management allowed Foulke to pitch while injured and obviously ineffective, but at least they have finally acknowledged that there is a problem. Let’s get him healthy and ready for the stretch run/postseason. If this is not feasible we must trade for an effective bullpen arm, but not mortgage the farm system in the process.

Until Foulke can right the ship, the Sox bullpen will have to make do with the dreaded “Closer By Committee.” Though Embree could probably benefit from a vacation similar to Foulke’s, he and Timlin will likely share the 8th and 9th inning duties. The Red Sox have a host of options in the minor leagues that could be auditioned, including Papelbon, Alvarez, Lester, Delcarmen, and possibly even 1st round closer phenom Hansen.