BOSTON — The Red Sox have optioned Phillips Valdez to Triple-A Worcester before Wednesday’s game, in order to make room for Tanner Houck who will start today.

Valdez allowed seven runs, five hits, and two walks in yesterday’s ninth inning, imploding his 2021 ERA as it went from 3.82 to 5.56. Despite his forgettable outing yesterday, he probably would have been optioned regardless of his performance.

Houck will start for Boston today, hoping to improve his already solid 2.45 ERA and 2.29 xFIP through seven outings (five starts).

(Photo by Billie Weiss/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images)