The Boston Red Sox do not have to worry about finding a new closer as they have re-signed Koji Uehara reports Mark Sheldon of MLB.com. The contract is for two years and $18 million, nearly double his previous two-year salary, and it ensures that the Red Sox retain the top-notch closer through at least 2016.
Although he faltered in August and September, Uehara still managed to save 26 games in 31 chances. Three of those blown saves came in the season's final two months when he had a WHIP of 1.47 and and ERA of 5.74 in 15 2/3 innings. Speculation had begun about the closer's possible departure from Boston, but now that the deal is done, Uehara expressed his delight in a tweet to Red Sox fans.
Koji: "Good morning everybody! You might have heard through media, I signed with Red Sox for 2 years. I am looking forward to seeing you!"
Uehara was instrumental in the Red Sox' 2013 World Series title run. He took over as the closer mid-season and saved 21 games in 24 chances. He set an American League record by making 44 appearances without allowing a base runner. He finished that season 4-1 with a 1.09 ERA. He also saved seven postseason games, allowing one run in 13 2/3 innings pitched. He was the ALCS MVP when the Red Sox defeated the Detroit Tigers in six games.
In 2014, Uehara compiled a record of 6-5 with a 2.52 ERA and 0.92 WHIP even with the down August and September figured in. He made his first All-Star team as he was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise dismal Red Sox season in which they finished 71-91. With this last-place finish, the Red Sox went from worst-to-first-to-worst in the A.L. East from 2012-2014.