Bob

Howry

Howry has pitched very well this season for the Tribe, however, he has had serious arm trouble in the past, and his stamina and consistency have been issues when he had previous trials as a closer. We think it might be better if Cleveland left Howry right where he is--setting up.

Howry has four years and 115 days of major league service, leaving him just short of the five years required to reject such a move. The Red Sox are expected to call up either Jason Shiell or Hector Almonte to replace Howry in the bullpen. Almonte pitched two innings yesterday, putting him at a disadvantage.

Howry has been phenomenal for Pawtucket, posting a 1-0 record with a 1.46 ERA in nine appearances, but over the weekend developed stiffness in his forearm.

Howry reported no problems and likely will throw again either tomorrow or Friday.

''He’ll go to Buffalo early in May. I feel he can help us, given time,’' Wedge said. Howry, coming off elbow surgery last year, could be ready to pitch in Cleveland around the middle of the month. He could help a decimated bullpen but shouldn’t be an option to close games.

The Red Sox are concerned that Howry might have a serious elbow problem.

Howry could have been recalled yesterday if healthy. Instead, the Red Sox chose to promote Jason Shiell.

Howry isn’t expected to be the closer when he returns to Boston, the date of which hasn’t been determined, but you may want to keep an eye on how he performs at Pawtucket.

He has pitched two innings and allowed only one hit. Howry, who is recovering from elbow surgery, could be Cleveland sometime next month. It remains to be seen if he will have a signifcant role in the mess that is currently the Indians’ bullpen.

It was his third save to go along with six victories.