While it was assumed that the struggling Daniel Bard would soon be dispatched to the bullpen, the Red Sox have taken the more drastic step of optioning him to Triple-A Pawtucket.
Bard has labored badly as a starter this season, and in his most recent outing he exhibited a complete lack of command and control. It could be that Bard's repertoire isn't deep enough for starting detail, it could be that he has trouble repeating his delivery, it could be mounting fatigue, or it could be mental in nature. Whatever the case, it's clear the Red Sox believe that a less pressurized environment and a focus on instruction are what Bard needs. Given the results to date, it's hard to argue otherwise.
Per the Associated Press, manager Bobby Valentine said the club felt Bard needs to work on his mechanics before he gets another shot at the Red Sox rotation. Valentine added that he expects Bard to make a quick turnaround.
It's not yet certain who will replace Bard in the Boston rotation, but it's possible that Daisuke Matsuzka or Aaron Cook will be ready to be activated soon.
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