The Pen is Set

It was announced today the members of the bullpen to start the season. The list is;
Jonathan Papelbon
Joel Piniero
Brandon Donnelly
Kyle Snyder
J.C. Romero
Javier Lopez (holding Timlins spot till he is healthy)
Hedeki Okajima

Most definatly not the most impressive group of arms but its what we have. Interestingly, their are 3 lefties in the bullpen. Lopez will be gone soon, leaving only 2. Personally, i don't see the point in have Romero and Okajima. Romero is completely useless against righties. I was hoping they would cut ties from him leaving his spot up to grabs between Hansack ,Breslow, and Corey. Sadly, that didn't happen and Red Sox fans will have to wait for him to emplode before those very deserving guys get a shot.

Papelbon being there really makes this pen look almost respectable. He will be able to sure up the 9th and put guys like Timlin and Donnelly in the roles they should be in. I see no reason for a Sophmore slump for Paps unless the injury bug hits him again. If the trio i mentioned above get a shot, i really think this bullpen could be above average. That is saying a lot considering how weak people thought this was going to be, myself including.

Delcarman and Hansen are going to get a chance to regain what they had in Pawtucket. I really like that move. I think the Red Sox really rushed them last season. I can see their confidence being shot, so maybe playing so lesser competition will do them some good. I don't see them down there very long, considering the injury problems a lot of these pitchers have. If they can keep them down till summer i think that would be wise.