Via MLBTradeRumors comes news that a rumored Red Sox reliever option is signing with...the Royals. Pretty odd if you ask me, even as a reclamation project.
This could affect the Red Sox in a number of ways. For one, the fewer low-cost closer options (Broxton did have successful years as a closer) around, the less likely the Sox convert Bard into a starter. Signing Broxton and another guy like him, and bringing Jenks back, would give the Sox ample closing options (even if they don't sound reliable). But the fewer of those you have, the harder it is to sell such a move.
Second is what Rosenthal mentions. If Soria is a trade candidate, expect Cherington to inquire. He had an off year last year (4.03 ERA in 60 games) but was really good in the previous four -- and is just 27. He's a possibility to end up here if he becomes available.
Maybe this is meaningless. Maybe Broxton continues to stumble and doesn't affect anything. But I think he's a good gamble, and one I would have liked Cherington to have made. Perhaps when the money comes out we'll know why he didn't.
