Red Sox, Bobby Jenks Reportedly on Verge of 2-Year Deal

by FanHouse Staff

Filed under: Red Sox, White Sox, MLB Rumors, MLB Hot Stove

The Red Sox reportedly are on the verge of a two-year deal with former White Sox closer Bobby Jenks, yet another indication of Jonathan Papelbon's fall from favor in the Boston bullpen.

Pending a physical, Jenks will agree to a deal worth $12 million over the next two seasons, according to ESPN.com and SI.com. The right-hander was non-tendered by Chicago after making $7.5 million last season.

Jenks has seen his save total fall each of the last five seasons from a high of 41 in 2006, his first year as the full-time closer from the White Sox. At the same time, his ERA has risen every year since 2007. He finished 2010 with 27 saves and a 4.44 ERA in 55 appearances.

Despite the drop-off in his performance, the 29-year-old gives Boston another seasoned option for the back of Terry Francona's bullpen at a relatively reasonable commitment -- especially considering the spate of three-year deals being handed out this winter to relievers without closing experience.

 

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