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Red Sox Free Agency 2011: Francisco Cordero Confirms Sox Interest

The Boston Red Sox are one of five teams who have expressed interest in free agent closer Francisco Cordero, the pitcher said on Friday.

Cordero told MLB Network Radio that the Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, Anaheim Angels, Tampa Bay Rays and Texas Rangers have all shown interest in acquiring his services.

The 36-year old was 5-3 last season with 37 saves and a 2.45 ERA, contributing 42 strikeouts in 69.2 innings. He had a sub-3.00 ERA in three of the past five seasons, saving at least 34 games in each of those seasons. His best year came with the Texas Rangers in 2004, when Cordero had 49 saves and a 2.13 ERA, striking out 79 batters in 71.2 innings.

The Red Sox need to replace Jonathan Papelbon after he left for the Philadelphia Phillies. General manager Ben Cherington has not ruled out promoting Daniel Bard to the closer role, but the Sox continue to show interest in free agent closers.

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