Daniel Bard's 21 consecutive scoreless appearances are a Red Sox franchise record. Bard has thrown 22 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings going back to May 23, holding opponents to a .108 average in the process, striking out 22 while issuing five free passes. It remains unclear if the Red Sox intend to re-sign closer Jonathan Papelbon this winter, but if not, Bard is more than ready to take his place in the ninth.