Red Sox recall RHP Bard from Double-A

The Red Sox recalled right-handed reliever Daniel Bard from Double-A Portland before Wednesday afternoon's game against Oakland.

The 27-year old right-hander made eight relief appearances for the Sea Dogs, going with 0-1 with a 4.00 ERA.

A valuable set up man for the Red Sox in 2010 and `11, the club adhered to Bard's wishes and attempted to convert him to a starter last season. Bard went 4-6 with a 5.30 ERA in 10 starts - and finished 5-6 overall with a 6.22 ERA in 17 games.

Due to control problems, he was demoted to Triple-A Pawtucket, where he went 3-2 with a 7.03 ERA in 31 games, making one start. To make room for Bard, Boston sent knuckleballer Steven Wright to Pawtucket.

The 28-year old Wright made his major league debut in relief in Tuesday's 13-0, rain-shortened loss to Oakland, giving up five runs on six hits in 3 2-3 innings.