Boston, MA (My Sportsbook) - The Boston Red Sox have exercised the $17.5 million option on ace righthander Pedro Martinez's contract for 2004. The Red Sox were not required to make a decision on Martinez's contract status for next season until November 5, but both sides wanted to get it over with as soon as possible. "We are pleased to have reached this understanding regarding the early exercise of our option under Pedro's current contract, in order to ensure that Pedro will pitch for the Boston Red Sox in 2004," said Red Sox president Larry Lucchino. "Now, it's time to focus on baseball, winning and 2003." The 31-year-old Martinez's recent arm problems could have been an issue, but he has thrown two outstanding games already this season. He has not won either game, thanks to Boston's bullpen woes, but has allowed just seven hits and two runs -- one earned -- in 15 innings. The three-time Cy Young winner was 20-4 with a 2.26 earned run average in 30 starts last season after an injury-plagued 2001 campaign that saw him post a mark of 7-3 with a 2.39 ERA in only 18 outings. Lucchino said the club will resume negotiations on a long-term deal with Martinez after the current season. "Once we complete the 2003 season, we will get together promptly with Pedro's representatives to continue our discussions of the longer-term contractual issues with our mutual goal that Pedro Martinez complete his career as a member of the Boston Red Sox," Lucchino added. The Red Sox are off to a 5-2 start this season, with both losses coming in games Martinez has started. |
