But looking forward to 2010 the picture is not so clear. Wagner had the Sox forego his 2010 club option in order to waive his NT. He has publicy stated that he wants a shot at 14 more saves to reach his milestone. With Papelbon the anointed closer for the last several years, Wagner has little chance of achieving this feat with Boston. So, it is assumed he will test the FA market and sign on with a team that will make him the closer. With his history, and 2009 performance showing no effects of past arm problems, he will most likely command a premium in the open market. Since the Sox protected themselves by retaining the ability to offer arbitration, they are in a position to garner two draft picks from the team signing Billy.
Daniel Bard has demonstrated closer abilities with his role since being called up and is being placed in more critical late game situations. One can conjecture that he is being eased into the setup/closer role and next year will take on more responsibility.
With Paps non commital on a long term contract at this point, and with the team looking forward, is it out of the realm of possibility that he could be trade bait in the off season?
Consider the Sox offering a two year contract to Wagner so that the closer role is filled and Billy gets his 14, with Bard gaining more experience to transition to closer upon Wagner's departure, and it could make Papelbon expendable. Think of the talent they could acquire in a trade for Paps.
Is this scenario far fetched, or what?.

