TAMPA, Fla. - Reliever Craig Hansen was optioned to Pawtucket after yesterday’s game. Manager Terry Francona said he wanted to see the hard-throwing right-hander pitch again this spring because pitching coach John Farrell has been impressed with Hansen’s mound presence.

“We’ve got a kid who has had his ups and downs,” said Francona. “We think the ups are on their way. … He’s going to be the Manny Delcarmen of this year. He’ll go back [to Pawtucket], do great, and then come back and help us.”

Hansen took the news well.

“They told me they were proud of what I did this spring training,” Hansen said. “I came in here ready to compete, and they were proud of that. When I get to minor-league camp, I just need to continue what I’ve been doing.”

-JOE McDONALD