The agent for free agent closer Heath Bell told ESPN the Boston Red Sox have shown interest in his client, one of the MLB's most attractive free agent relievers.

Agent Sam Levinson said the Red Sox, looking to replace the departed Jonathan Papelbon, have made preliminary contact with him regarding Bell. 

The 34-year old Bell, who had 43 saves and a 2.44 ERA for the San Diego Padres last season, stated earlier this offseason that he is intrigued by the possibility of joining the Red Sox pitching staff. He has saved at least 40 games in each of the past three seasons, during which time he has a combined 2.36 ERA.

The Red Sox have also contacted closer Francisco Cordero, the 36-year old who saved 37 games and posted a 2.45 ERA for the Cincinnati Reds last season. They were also rumored to have interest in Ryan Madson, who almost assuredly will not return to the Philadelphia Phillies after the team signed Papelbon to a four-year, $50 million contract.

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