Doubront could emerge as reliable bullpen option

DETROIT -- Heading into the postseason, there were questions on how much Felix Doubront could help the Red Sox.

Doubront struggled mightily as a starter down the stretch. Also, he didn't seem overly receptive to the transition to the bullpen.

But after not being used in the American League Division Series, Doubront came out of the woodwork in Game 2 of the AL Championship Series and fired 1 1/3 scoreless innings to keep the Red Sox close and help set the stage for their comeback.

How much would it help the Red Sox if Doubront can prove reliable out of the bullpen?

"A lot," said manager John Farrell. "When you get past [Miguel] Cabrera in this lineup, left-handers fit this lineup better. To keep Victor [Martinez] on the right side of the plate [is important]. You have [Alex] Avila, [Don] Kelly and [Andy] Dirks to maybe neutralize a little more. I know we're only two games in, but Felix could play a pivotal role in this series."