Red Sox's Fernando Abad: Apt for lefty-specialist role

Abad, who didn't pitch well after being acquired by Boston last season and was left off the postseason roster, was retained by the Red Sox because they recognize he can be an effective left-handed reliever, Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:

Abad had a 6.39 ERA over 12.2 innings in 18 games for Boston, but left-handed hitters were just 3-for-23 (.130) against him, suggesting he can still be a useful left-handed specialist. He'll join Robbie Ross as the primary left-handers in Boston's bullpen.