All-Star closer Bailey goes to Boston Red Sox

The Oakland Athletics traded All-Star closer Andrew Bailey and outfielder Ryan Sweeney to the Boston Red Sox on Wednesday for outfielder Josh Reddick and prospects Miles Head and Raul Alcantara. In the deal new Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine has found a reliable ninth-inning guy in Bailey to replace the departed Jonathan Papelbon, who signed a $50 million, four-year contract as a free agent with the Philadelphia Phillies in November. Bailey – the 2009 A.L. Rookie of the Year who made the All-Star team that season and again in 2010 – has been the subject of trade talk this offseason. The right-handed Bailey, 27, went 0-4 with a 3.24 ERA and 24 saves in 41 2/3 innings this year.

– Associated Press