Tazawa nears return; Kelly tabbed for bullpen

BOSTON — The Red Sox’s recent trades have left both the bullpen and bench feeling fulfilled. But key players are still missing in action, having been bit by the injury bug. The good news? Some are doing better than others.

After suffering a right shoulder impingement and being placed on the 15-day disabled list last Thursday (retroactive to July 4), right-handed reliever Junichi Tazawa is expected to return to the ‘pen as early as this weekend.

“He just completed his simulation game. Threw the ball very well,” Red Sox manager John Farrell said before Tuesday’s series opener vs. the Giants. “Threw all of his pitches. He’ll get rechecked tomorrow. If everything goes according to plan, we would hope to activate him by Friday.”

Tazawa was the effect of an overused, tired bullpen before his departure to the DL. The 30-year-old made 35 relief appearances for the Red Sox this season, going 1-1 with a 3.52 ERA while recording 37 strikeouts and allowing just eight walks.

Right-hander Joe Kelly …

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