Bard's Role

[DaaBoTownSox]

So, apparently there is still uncertainty with Bard's role heading into the start of the season. Some say he should start, while others say he should go back to the bullpen while Aceves & Doubront take up the last 2 spots.

What do you guys think?

[yankeebiscuitfan]

It seems to me that Valentine has some doubts when he asks Bard if he is still commited.

[DaaBoTownSox]

There are indications that the Boston Red Sox have decided to start the season with both Alfredo Aceves and Felix Doubront in the starting rotation, which means Daniel Bard is headed back to the bullpen.

Bard was just okay in his most recent outing Tuesday, allowing three earned runs but walking three batters in five innings, after struggling something fierce in his previous start. As the Boston Globe's Peter Abraham points outFriday, Bard has walked 10 over 12 2/3 innings so far this spring, which is concerning for Bobby Valentine. Considering Bard has serious control issues -- like, 9.4 walks per nine -- in his lone season as a starter in the minors, back in 2007, maybe he's better off in the bullpen after all.

Bard, as a reliever, is a fantasy value as a setup man who should rack up holds and strikeouts, and it's not out of the question that the Sox go back to Bard in a starting role later in the season.

Source: ESPN