Boston Red Sox To Sign Vicente Padilla

The Boston Red Sox and free agent pitcher Vicente Padilla have reached an agreement on a new contract, according to Peter Gammons of MLB Network. It had previously been reported by other sources that the two sides were nearing a deal, so this news shouldn't come as a complete surprise.

Padilla, 34, spent last season the past two-plus seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers after being traded there during the middle of the 2009 season. A longtime starter, he struggled with some injuries during his time in LA, eventually converting to the bullpen to make nine appearances with the Dodgers last season.

Before the injuries hit, Padilla was actually still effective as a starting pitcher, though, so teams may still be somewhat interested in going down that road. In relief, Padilla saw his velocity increase, so he may be able to find some new life in his mid-30's from the bullpen. But after the pitching meltdown that Boston had last season, it's understandable that they want some insurance guys that could be able to start if necessary.