Red Sox Release Josh Bard

According to the Boston Herald's Michael Silverman, the Red Sox have parted ways with catcher Josh Bard.

It appears that 25-year-old George Kottaras has won the backup catching job.  It probably had something to do with his ability, and Bard's inability, to catch Tim Wakefield's knuckleball.  Kottaras is also out of minor league options and the Red Sox didn't want to risk losing him.

Bard, 30, was 6-for-14 this spring with one home run, five RBI and two doubles.  He finished with a line of .202/.279/.270 in 178 at-bats last season.