In what is perhaps going to be a sign of the times, the Red Sox have chosen not to exercise the $6.25 million 2021 option for pitcher Martin Perez.
With the uncertain economics of baseball, and the potential to fill out the starting rotation with cheaper options, the move isn't a total surprise. But in normal times Perez would most likely still be a member of the Red Sox.
The 29-year-old lefty was perhaps the Red Sox' most reliable starter in 2020, finishing with a 4.50 ERA in 12 starts (62 innings). He had a .240 batting average against, with opponents managing a .744 OPS off Perez.
With the move the Red Sox' starting rotation includes Eduardo Rodriguez, Nathan Eovaldi, Tanner Houck and perhaps Nick Pivetta, with Chris Sale coming back from Tommy John surgery most likely sometime in May or June.
The Red Sox' 40-man roster now stands at 36 players.