The Boston Red Sox made an obvious move official, picking up the 2018 team options for Chris Sale and Craig Kimbrel. Their combined salaries bring the team’s payroll for next season up to $114.5 million.
Before we get too excited about the room that leaves the Red Sox under the expected $197 million luxury tax threshold, we should note that the current payroll accounts for only six players. David Price ($30 million), Hanley Ramirez ($22 million), Rick Porcello ($21 million), Dustin Pedroia ($16 million), Kimbrel ($13 million) and Sale ($12.