The Boston Red Sox have declined Garrett Richards’ club option for 2022, as the right-hander will become a free agent according to MassLive.com‘s Chris Cotillo.

Source: Red Sox have declined their club option on Garrett Richards. He’s now a free agent.

— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) November 7, 2021

Richards held a 4.87 ERA across 40 outings (22 starts). The 33-year-old salvaged a 3.75 ERA to start June but struggled after the MLB’s crackdown on foreign substances and was moved to the bullpen once Chris Sale came back.

The right-hander did openly state that he used only sunscreen, not spider-tack or any substance. His spin rates, which were as high as anyone, dropped dramatically as well. He also developed a changeup mid-season after the crackdown.

Richards was signed to a one-year, $10M deal back in January which included a club option — the buyout is $1.5M. The veteran could return to Boston but on a cheaper deal.

(Photo of Garrett Richards by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)