Red Sox Sign Vicente Padilla

Today, the Red Sox came to terms on a contract with Vicente Padilla. A few days ago, the Red Sox were linked to Padilla, who will be one of the group of Aaron Cook, Carlos Silva, and now, Padilla-- who will be competing for the #5 spot in the rotation. Padilla had a lost year in 2011 due to injuries, going 0-0/4.15/9 in 8.2 innings out of the bullpen in 2011. For the majority of his career, however, he has been a largely average starter for the Phillies, Rangers, and Dodgers. In 2010, his last year as a starter, he lived up to his expectations, going 6-5/4.07/84 in 16 starts, plus a 4.21 FIP and 3.74 xFIP. So far, it appears at Padilla will be healthy heading into 2012, and has been playing in the Nicaraguan Winter League, where he has been clocked at 95-96 miles per hour. The Red Sox have been linked to Roy Oswalt as well in the past few days. If the Red Sox were to sign Oswalt, it would be unlikely for guys like Padilla to make an impact. However, if they do not sign Oswalt, then Padilla will have a shot at the #5 spot in spring training.