The Red Sox have made another signing off the free agent market adding pitcher Bobby Jenks on a two year deal worth 12 million dollars. Jenks posted a 4.44 ERA last season with a 1.37 WHIP in 55 appearances, his highest ERA total since becoming a major leaguer.
Jenks could prove to be a valuable pitcher for the Red Sox, likely making the majority of his appearances in the seventh or eighth inning. With Papelbon and Bard closing out the game, Jenks could be even see action in the middle innings.
Still, there is still some cause for concern with Jenks. His ERA has risen from 2.63 in 2008 to 3.78 in '09 to 4.44 in 2010. His WHIP also progressively rose from 1.10 to 1.28 to 1.37 in 2010. His weight has flirted with the 300 territory, but he is reportedly down to a reasonable level.
The Red Sox still made a good deal because Jenks signed for a reduced rate off of his 2010 contract. Granted, it wasn't that much off his career course, but he could return to form in a change of scenery and role which could pay huge dividends to the Red Sox pitching core.