Roche: Red Sox Add Wheeler
BOSTON (CBS) -- The Red Sox added another reliever to their 2011 bullpen Saturday when they agrees to terms with free agent reliever Dan Wheeler.
The deal is for one year at 3-million dollars, with an vesting 3-million dollar option for 2012 that kicks in if he appears in 65 games in 2011 and grows to 3.25-million if he appears in 70 games.
The Warwick, Rhode Island native appeared in 64 games last season with the Tampa Rays going 2-4 with a 3.35. The ERAWheeler, a native of Warwick, R.I. (he was selected by the Rays out of Pilgrim High School in the 34th round of the 1997 draft), agreed to a one-year deal with an option for a second year that vests if he makes 65 appearances.
Last season, Wheeler was 2-4 with a 3.35 ERA and 3 saves for the Rays. He pitched in 48.1 innings, allowing 36 hits while walking 20 and striking out 46.
He will be added to the 6th and 7th inning mix along with just-signed Bobby Jenks and rookie Felix Doubront.
Wheeler is 1-0 with a 3.38 ERA in 21 postseason games as well.
ESPN's Gordon Edes first reported this story.
