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Ex-Yankees Reliever Waiting For Red Sox To Call originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
While not much has gone right this season for the Boston Red Sox, one of the bright spots on the club has been its bullpen. Boston's 3.03 bullpen ERA is No. 2 in the majors. Its bullpen WHIP (1.16) is No. 3 and its opponents' batting average (.217) is No. 5.
The Red Sox bullpen is anchored by closer Aroldis Chapman, who's tied for third in the American League with 11 saves and right-hander Garrett Whitlock, who's tied for fourth in the AL with nine holds.
As a result, there hasn't been much room for Tommy Kahnle to break through in the big leagues.
The former New York Yankees reliever signed a minor-league deal with the Red Sox in spring training. And the right-hander has done his part, posting a 1.88 ERA in 13 appearances with Triple-A Worcester.
“It’s been great,” the 36-year-old Kahnle said Tuesday, according to Masslive.com's Chris Cotillo. “I’m just kinda the old guy in the clubhouse, taking it day-by-day and showing these guys you come in with a good routine and good attitude every day. It’s the same game we’ve played our whole lives."
While with the WooSox, Kahnle has recorded 14 strikeouts in 14.1 innings of work.
“I like how the heater has looked,” Kahnle said, per Cotillo. “Been throwing more sliders and fastballs. I like the mix, so I’ve been having a good time with that.”
One possible red flag is his control. Kahnle has issued eight walks in his 13 appearances.
“I would say, it’s ‘not bad,’” Kahnle noted, when asked about his performance. “Me, I’m pretty critical of myself so I think there’s definitely way more room for improvement, especially changeup-wise. I feel like (the changeup) hasn’t been that on.”
Cotillo reported Kahnle can opt out of his contract on June 1 and become a free agent.
“Obviously, it’s in the back of my mind but I have no idea where I’m going to be,” Kahnle said. “I couldn’t tell you.”
Over 11 MLB seasons, Kahnle has made 456 appearances, recording a 3.61 ERA. Last year, he pitched for the Detroit Tigers, making 66 appearances and picking up a career-high nine saves while posting a 4.43 ERA.
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