A Flurry of Redsox Moves

Over the last few weeks, the Boston Red Sox have made a plethora of intriguing signings. Lets take a closer look:

Brad Penny - The former Dodgers ace will fight for the #5 rotation spot with Clay Bucholz and Michael Bowden. Boston took advantage of a solid low-risk opportunity--if it pans out, they get a pitcher who could get 15 wins with a 3.50 ERA. If Penny stumbles, the Redsox send him to AAA or the bullpen and Bucholz steps in.

Takashi Saito - Another former Dodger, Saito has been a lights-out closer since he came over from Japan. He was derailed by injuries in 2008 and will be 39 by opening day, but Saito can still be an excellent set-up man when healthy.

Josh Bard - Definitely not the best catcher in the league, but better than Jason Varitek at this point in his career. Bard will provide an affordable stopgap until the Redsox can find a long-term. solution.

Rocco Baldelli - Once a highly touted prospect with the Tampa Bay Rays, Baldelli will never live up to that potential due to his medical condition which causes extreme fatigue. However, Baldelli, who possesses a strong bat and good fielding ability, can still be useful as a pinch-hitter or a defensive replacement.

Junichi Tazawa - The 22 year old would have been the first pick in the Japanese Central League had he not decided to play in America. He should probably start his career in AA or AAA and has the upside of a #3 starter.

The Red Sox didn't get Mark Texietria or CC Sabathia like the Yankees, but they did sign productive, high upside role-players to complement their stars. Boston now has exceptional depth which should bode them well during the long season.