Capuano impresses with three no-hit relief frames

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- When the Red Sox signed Chris Capuano to make up for the loss of Ryan Dempster, they were hoping he could give them depth in both the rotation and the bullpen.

Thus far, the lefty has made the decision to bring him on board look like a good one.

In Thursday's game against the Yankees, Capuano fired three hitless innings, walking two and striking out three.

"He continues to throw the ball very well," said manager John Farrell. "He pitches. He uses all of his pitches. He's not afraid to throw in on right-handers with his fastball. He's got a good mix to throttle some hitters back and forth with fastballs and changeups. He continues to make quality pitches. He's been very good."

Though Capuano figures to start the season in the bullpen, the Red Sox are continuing to stretch him out in case he is needed at some point as a starter.

Capuano worked hard in the offseason, even though he didn't sign until late.

"Probably the biggest thing is the shape he keeps himself in," said Farrell. "It was apparent he had thrown a number of bullpen [sessions] prior to signing with us. And to have the command that he's shown, that's as impressive as anything we've seen with him. The assortment with pitches, the execution of them, reading swings and the pitch selection has been very good. He's been a very good addition."