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Dec. 26: Red Sox trade for Hanrahan: The Red Sox got themselves a new closer when they shipped righthanded reliever Mark Melancon and three minor leaguers: infielder Ivan De Jesus Jr., righthander Stolmy Pimentel and first baseman/outfielder Jerry Sands to the Pirates for closer Joel Hanrahan and infield prospect Brock Holt.

Hanrahan was immediately installed as the closer by manager John Farrell, a move that resulted in Andrew Bailey becoming a set-up man.

Hanrahan visited Fenway Park on Jan. 8.

“I feel like I’ve been in some big games. I feel like I’ve been in some tough spots. I’m not going to go out there and strike out the side every time. That’s not the kind of pitcher that I am. I’m going to come after guys,” he said.