Andrew Bailey: Boston Red Sox Acquire Much-Needed Closer from Oakland A's

The Boston Red Sox have found a replacement for recently departed closer Jonathan Papelbon.

Via ESPN's Buster Olney, here's the latest news:

In a subsequent tweet, Olney noted that the A's will be getting outfielder Josh Reddick as part of the trade for Bailey, as well as a pair of prospects—third baseman Miles Head and pitcher Raul Alcantara. Olney later revealed that the Red Sox will also be getting outfielder Ryan Sweeney from the A's.

Bailey is also a two-time All-Star, one who has notched at least 20 saves in each of his first three major league seasons. He has had his troubles with injuries in each of the last two seasons, but Bailey is one of the league's most effective closers when he is healthy.

Bailey works off of his fastball, which he can throw in the mid-90s. He can also locate it very well, allowing him to keep hitters off-balance with his curveball and cutter.

Bailey's best year was in 2009, when he racked up 26 saves while posting an ERA of 1.84 and a WHIP of 0.88. He struck out 91 hitters in 83.1 innings, and was ultimately named the American League Rookie of the Year.

The Red Sox lost Papelbon when he signed with the Philadelphia Phillies in early November. They traded for Houston Astros reliever Mark Melancon earlier this month but remained in the market for a closer largely because they plan on using Daniel Bard as a starter.

The Red Sox blew 16 saves in 2011. Bailey has blown a total of nine saves so far in his career.