In an interesting turn of events, Andrew Bailey has returned to Boston for the second time in 11 years, expressing hope for a smoother experience than his initial stint over a decade ago.
Before venturing into coaching under Alex Cora, Bailey, once a standout young reliever, was traded from the Athletics to the Red Sox in a significant deal in December 2011.
Despite being part of the 2013 World Series championship team, Bailey’s playing time in Boston was marred by injuries, limiting him to just 44 innings over two seasons as a closer.
Now, after four years as San Francisco’s pitching coach, Bailey sees his return to the Red Sox not only as a geographical proximity to his Connecticut home but also as a chance to complete a full circle. He admits being selfishly excited about the opportunity, acknowledging that as a player, injuries prevented him from fulfilling his potential. The second chance to contribute in a different capacity is a rare and motivating prospect for Bailey.
Having missed the entire 2014 season due to shoulder surgery, Bailey pitched for the Yankees, Phillies, and Angels before retiring in 2017. Swiftly transitioning to coaching with the Angels in 2018, Bailey climbed the ranks and served as the Giants’ pitching coach for the last four years.
Bailey, who has maintained a home in Connecticut, emphasized the importance of coaching closer to his family, especially with three children under 13. Expressing his desire to be the best husband, father, and baseball professional, Bailey reached out to Red Sox executives even before Dave Bush’s departure, expressing his interest in the coaching role.
The Red Sox faced competition from several teams, including the Marlins, Orioles, White Sox, and even the Yankees, in hiring Bailey. His close relationship with Red Sox baseball operations leader Craig Breslow, a former teammate, played a pivotal role in securing the position.
This winter, the Red Sox have prioritized bringing former players into key organizational roles, with Breslow leading the baseball operations department. Bailey, as the first Red Sox pitching coach to have played for the team in over 25 years, joins a lineup of experienced individuals who have both played and won championships in Boston.
Despite already having a World Series ring from his playing days, Bailey enters his second stint with the organization with a clear determination to succeed.
Reflecting on his diverse experiences as a player, he sees the unique challenges of Boston as valuable lessons that he can use to guide and support current players through highs and lows.
Bailey expresses gratitude for the privilege of being the pitching coach for the Boston Red Sox, acknowledging his familiarity with the pressure and expectations of the Boston market.
He eagerly anticipates the opportunity to experience success in Boston once again, recognizing the significance of having faced and overcome challenges in the past.
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