The rumors surrounding the free agency status of Craig Kimbrel continue to simmer and fade. The Boston Red Sox haven’t made any significant bullpen moves to replace the flame-throwing closer, leaving them with only internal options for that role if they are indeed content to let Kimbrel walk away.
One pitcher eager to step into Kimbrel’s shoes is Matt Barnes.
In an interview on MLB Network radio, Barnes explained how his postseason experience during Boston’s World Series run helped prepare him for the pressure of handling the closer duties.
“There is something different about the last three outs of the game in the ninth inning,” Barnes said.