Remember Andrew Bailey? Sure you do. Three years ago he was AL Rookie of the Year, two years ago he was still dominating AL hitters with a 1.47 ERA and 0.959 WHIP, in 2011 he was still effective with 24 saves despite a higher ERA. All of that got the Red Sox interested in him, they acquired him by trade, and he promptly got hurt and has not thrown a single pitch for them.

How Red Sox, right? Well, now Bailey could be making his Boston debut soon. Justin Albers:

Injured reliever Andrew Bailey pitched well in back-to-back appearances for Triple-A Pawtucket on Wednesday and Thursday, and he may be nearing a return to the big leagues.

Bailey allowed one hit and struck out two in a scoreless inning of work on Thursday afternoon. He pitched a 1-2-3 frame and struck out one in his appearance on Wednesday. Bailey consistently worked in the low 90s on Thursday, but he touched 94 mph. He is scheduled to pitch again for Pawtucket on Sunday.

The article says Bailey told WEEI radio in Boston he felt “close” to returning. Boston has needed relief help all year; Alfredo Aceves does have 23 saves, but with a high 4.21 ERA. Bailey’s return to action will be welcomed at Fenway Park.

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