Kason Gabbard

Not so very long ago (2004) in a land not so far away (Los Angeles) there lived a superstar closer named Eric Gagne . In the 47 opportunities he was given to shut down opponents that year, Gagne saved 45 games. He owned an impressive 2.19 ERA and struck out 114 batters in just 82.1 innings pitched. After a slew of injuries, he underwent Tommy John surgery in 2005, recovered the next year and appeared in two games before hurting his back. During his time off, he was abducted by the same aliens who kidnapped Michael Jackson. They took away his command and precision, ... Read Full Story

Two years ago, a young lefty named Kason Gabbard was called up to replace an injured Curt Schilling. Gabbard had a great stint, culminating with a complete game shutout against the Kansas City Royals. He was traded to the Rangers along with prospect David Murphy for Eric Gagne. Despite a good few months in Texas and a similar 2008 season, he has been used in the minor leagues so far in 2009. Gabbard was reacquiredby the Sox for cash considerations today, and will report to the Red Sox’ Spring Training facility in Ft. Myers, FL. He will most likely start in the minors, but ... Read Full Story

Boston Red Sox manager Terry Francona announced Monday night that David Ortiz will be placed on the 15-day disabled list with a partially torn tendon in his left wrist, but surgery is unlikely. The 32-year-old designated hitter, who leads the team with 13 homers and 43 RBIs, hurt himself swinging at a pitch Saturday night against the Baltimore Orioles , missed Sunday's game, and headed back to Boston where he underwent an MRI exam Monday. The club plans to recall righty Justin Masterson from AAA Pawtucket to fill Big Papi’s spot on the roster and to start this Tuesday against the Tampa Bay Rays ... Read Full Story

The Texas Rangers traded left-handed pitcher Kason Gabbard to Boston Red Sox on Thursday, sending him back to his original team for cash. Gabbard was 4-0 for the Red Sox when they traded him on July 31, 2007, to Texas as part of a deal for closer Eric Gagne. Drafted by Boston in 2000, the 27-year-old Gabbard was 9-7 with a 4.53 ERA in parts of four seasons with the Red Sox and Texas. He was at Triple-A Oklahoma City when the deal was made. The trade came one day after Texas pitcher Darren O'Day wore Gabbard's jersey in a game at Toronto. O'Day ... Read Full Story

Texas Rangers starter Kason Gabbard had an early exit Sunday in his start against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays . After Delmon Young led off the inning with a deep fly ball, Gabbard paused while manager Ron Washington headed to the mound with his cavalry. Seconds later, the 25-year-old handed the ball away and walked to the dugout to have his stiff pitching forearm tended to. Acquired in the July 31st Eric Gagne trade with the Boston Red Sox , the rookie left-hander gave up a leadoff single to Jonny Gomes before retiring his last four batters with two strikeouts. In the 98 degree ... Read Full Story