Red Sox add veteran reliever Janssen
BOSTON -- The Red Sox signed veteran reliever Casey Janssen to a Minor League deal on Wednesday, and the righty could become an option if he can rediscover some of his past form.
After a successful eight-year career with the Blue Jays (3.52 ERA, 90 saves), Janssen struggled with the Nationals last season, posting a 4.95 ERA in 48 games.
He didn't make the Padres' roster in Spring Training and was released.
The Red Sox have Craig Kimbrel as the closer, and Koji Uehara and Junichi Tazawa serving as the primary setup men.
Ever since losing Carson Smith for the season following Tommy John surgery, the Red Sox have been on the lookout for some more bullpen help.
Janssen, 34, will start at a lower-level affiliate and eventually work his way up to Triple-A Pawtucket.