The Red Sox have announced that they optioned Tanner Houck to Triple-A Worcester, following last night’s 4-1 win.

The #RedSox optioned RHP Tanner Houck to Triple-A Worcester following last night’s game against the Toronto Blue Jays.

— Red Sox (@RedSox) July 29, 2021

The move clearly isn’t because of performance — Houck has posted a 2.45 ERA through six outings this season with Boston (four starts), as welll as a 1.70 FIP and a strikeout rate of 33.7%.

“It’s about roster flexibility,” manager Alex Cora told reporters. “Houck is going to pitch in the doubleheader in Toronto on Saturday (August 7th). Roster-wise, in the upcoming days, this is where we’re going.”

At first, many speculated a trade could be coming, which is still very possible, but the move is for roster flexibility. He will be called back up for this weekend.