Lyon, who had been pitching for Triple-A Pawtucket, has opted out of his minor league contract, the PawSox announced. The Red Sox signed both Lyon and Jose Contreras to minor league deals on July 19.
“We knew his day was coming and he chose to take his out and see what opportunities are out there,” PawSox manager Gary DiSarcina said of Lyon after Thursday’s game.
Lyon enjoyed major league success last season in 67 appearances split between the Astros and Blue Jays. He struggled with the Mets in 37 appearances this season, though, leading to his release and eventual signing with the Red Sox.
Lyon, who is now a free agent, allowed one earned run in 5 1/3 innings over four relief appearances for Pawtucket. The Red Sox have a number of relievers ahead of him on the depth chart, though, and that ultimately led to Lyon opting out.
Have a question for Ricky Doyle? Send it to him via Twitter at @TheRickyDoyle or send it here.
