Andrew Bailey "Real Close" To Returning To Boston

You would think, following back-to-back appearances in Triple-A Pawtucket that resulted in two scoreless frames and three strikeouts, that Andrew Bailey was very close to joining the Red Sox in the majors. According to Bailey (by way of Alex Speier), you would be correct in your assessment.

"I definitely accomplished the goal of going back-to-back. Just another step in the right direction. Able to execute pitches when need be. Good building block off yesterday," said Bailey. "I feel real close.

Bailey has missed the entire season due to a tear in the ulnar collateral ligament in his thumb that required surgery, but his rehab assignment makes it look as if he never missed any time. He gave up two hits and struck out four in two innings in the GCL, struck out two in an inning in Portland, and now has three punch outs in two frames in Pawtucket. If he's not coming up to join the Red Sox in Cleveland as of today, he'll likely at least meet up with them Baltimore to face the Orioles for the series starting Tuesday, with his likely destination in the meantime being more rehab at a convenient minor-league location.

Bailey mixed his curve in with his four-seamer and cutter, the last of which the righty says didn't work for him as well as it had on Wednesday, precipitating additional use of his heater.