4 years agoBoston Red Sox pitcher Adam Ottavino battled with Matt Barnes this spring for the club's closer role. But when Matt Barnes tested positive for COVID-19, the race was left unfinished according to manager Alex Cora. With Barnes now cleared to return to action, he and Ottavino should both work high-leverage situations and both could see save opportunities. The latter pitcher could not have thrown much better this spring. Ottavino did not allow an earned run in six appearances spanning 6.1 innings. He allowed six hits and one walk with seven strikeouts. Last season, he was roughed up a bit with a 5.89 ERA in 24 games but he struck out 25 batters in 18.1 innings. Prior to 2020, he had a run of three straight seasons with 21 or more holds.--Marc Hulet - RotoBaller
Source: Ian Browne