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Red Sox closer Matt Barnes tests positive for COVID-19

MLB: Boston Red Sox at Atlanta Braves

Mar 7, 2021; North Port, Florida, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Matt Barnes (32) pitches in the forth inning during spring training at CoolToday Park. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Spo

Boston Red Sox closer Matt Barnes has tested positive for COVID-19 and won’t be ready for opening day.

Manager Alex Cora said Saturday that Barnes is asymptomatic. Matt Andriese, who was scheduled to start a spring training game against Pittsburgh, was scratched because of contract tracing.

“It’s a fire drill now,” Cora said.

Barnes had emerged as the top candidate for the closer’s job this spring. He will need to remain out for at least 10 days.