Kimbrel, who was torched for four runs in a non-save situation Tuesday, requested to pitch Wednesday night regardless of the score, Kevin Dillon of Mass Live reports. "He made it clear," Boston manager John Farrell said. "He wanted to be back on the mound [Wednesday]. With only 12 pitches thrown [Tuesday], he is fresh and wanted to make sure we got an opportunity to work through some things."

EDGE Analysis

Boston's All-Star closer has not been good in non-save situations this season and wanted to put Tuesday night's debacle behind him. He entered Wednesday's game with Boston holding a five-run lead over Texas, and while he was better -- no runs allowed, no hits, two strikeouts -- he did put two batters on via the walk after getting the first two hitters out. The Red Sox have an off day Thursday, so Kimbrel should be available if a save opportunity presents itself Friday night against the Rays.