Breslow gives 'pen third lefty; Workman to Triple-A

BOSTON -- An invaluable component of Boston's 2013 bullpen returned Wednesday, as lefty Craig Breslow was activated from the disabled list.

Breslow, who had a left shoulder strain, joins Andrew Miller and Chris Capuano to give manager John Farrell three southpaw relievers to choose from in the bullpen.

"Initially we'll probably get him in some lower-leverage situations just as he gets in the flow of things," said Farrell. "But as Craig has shown for some time, there's a dependability of strike throwing. With the upcoming series and the number of left-handers in given lineups, that's going to be a plus for us to have that third left-hander. But we've also sent out a very good pitcher in Brandon Workman and he'll go into the rotation down in Pawtucket."

Workman, who became dependable enough for the Red Sox that Farrell used him in the clinching games of last year's American League Championship Series and World Series, could provide starting depth for Boston at some point this season.

In fact, that is likely how the club will deploy him when he gets his next promotion from the Minors. The club would prefer to avoid continuing to change his role.

"Well that's what we outlined in Spring Training," said Farrell. "Now as we go back to starting, that's where we have to be careful as far as changing the role again. If we could script it, he would remain as a starter and if the need were to arise, he'd be back here pitching for us in that role."