Embree Doesn’t Opt Out Of Red Sox Contract

SATURDAY, 3:17pm: Embree has agreed to push his opt-out date back from April 15th to April 30th, a team source tells Rob Bradford of WEEI.  If the 40-year-old is not on the 25-man roster by that date, he is eligible to become a free agent.

The lefty reliever told Pawtucket Red Sox broadcaster Dan Hoard that he will "go home" if he is not promoted by the Red Sox or presented with another enticing opportunity.  Under his minor league deal with Boston, Embree can earn up to $1.1MM if he is brought up to the big show.

Embree had appeared in more than 60 games for ten straight seasons before a freak injury ended his 2009 campaign prematurely.  He has been less-than-stellar with Pawtucket, though 3.1 innings is hardly a fair sample size.

THURSDAY, 9:43pm: Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports (via Twitter) that LHP Alan Embree won't yet exercise the opt-out clause in his Red Sox contract.  Embree was eligible to opt out as of today since he isn't on the major league roster.  WEEI's Alex Speier adds that Embree will spend "a few more weeks" in Triple-A Pawtucket before deciding his next move.

The 40-year-old reliever didn't sign with Boston until March 21, so it's likely he's using his time in the minors as an extended spring training to work himself into proper game shape.  Delaying the opt-out clause also gives Embree more time for agent Chris Leible to search the market for a new contract.  Embree could join these relievers as possible pick-ups for a team in need of bullpen help.