Boston Redsox Showing A Lot Of Interest in Joel Hanrahan But Deal Isn't Close Yet

Red Sox close on Joel Hanrahan
Updated: December 22, 2012, 1:15 PM ET
By Gordon Edes | ESPNBoston.com

BOSTON -- The Boston Red Sox are moving toward acquiring closer Joel Hanrahan from the Pittsburgh Pirates, according to multiple sources. However, one official cautioned that there was "still work to be done."
Hanrahan saved a total of 76 games over the last two seasons for the Pirates and is a year away from free agency. With incumbent closer Andrew Bailey still a question mark after a season in which he was injured for most of the year, then pitched ineffectively, it makes sense that the Sox would explore bullpen upgrades.
It is unclear what the Pirates would be getting back in return. Pittsburgh has been looking for pitching, primarily starters, but just came to terms with Francisco Liriano.
One major league source said Pittsburgh is seeking a "significant return" for Hanrahan, an All-Star in each of the last two seasons. He earned $4.1 million in 2012 and can expect a significant bump in salary arbitration, to close to $7 million.