Projected PawSox 2009- Fernando Cabrera

The Red Sox, under their current ownership, have made a point to stock their Triple A roster with veterans who have Big League experience, with the hope one or two of them could possibly make a contribution in Boston. This year is no different.

Among the new faces expected to pitch in Pawtucket with Major League experience is right handed reliever Fernando Cabrera.

The 27 year-old Cabrera is looking for a comeback in 2009 after spending a good portion of 2007 and 2008 on the sidelines following elbow surgery.  The 1999 20th round draft pick of the Cleveland Indians has major League experience with both the Tribe and Orioles, combining for an 8-7 record with a 5.02 ERA in 125 appearances.

Cabrera did pitch well last year in a brief stint with the Norfolk Tides, giving up only one earned run in 13 innings of work.

Scouts rate Cabrera with an above average fastball (mid 90′s) with good movement.  Cabrera’s problem has come in the development of a consistent set of secondary pitches.

Cabrera is spending part of his spring on the Puerto Rican team at the World Baseball Classic.  Expect Cabrera to spend most of 2009 in the PawSox bullpen.  He will need a strong showing to impress the Red Sox to call him up in the event of an injury in the Sox’ bullpen.

Photo courtesy MLB