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Red Sox pick up Chris Sale and Craig Kimbrel’s options

Divisional Round - Boston Red Sox v Houston Astros - Game One

HOUSTON, TX - OCTOBER 05: Chris Sale #41 of the Boston Red Sox throws a pitch in the first inning against the Houston Astros during game one of the American League Division Series at Minute Maid Park on October 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

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I hope you’re sitting down for this major news, but if you’re not, at least try to brace yourself: the Red Sox have picked up Chris Sale’s $12.5 million option for 2018.

Sale should finish high in the 2017 American League Cy Young balloting after posting a 2.90 ERA and a 308/43 K/BB ratio over 214.1 innings this season. At $12.5 million he’s a steal. Even if he falls off big from that next season, his 2019 option at $13.5 million is just as much of a steal.

The Red Sox also picked up closer Craig Kimbrel’s $13 million option for 2018. Kimbrel was one of the top closers in baseball this year, posting a 1.43 ERA, and an outstanding 126/14 K/BB ratio in 69 innings and notching 35 saves. Kimbrel can become a free agent next winter.

Follow @craigcalcaterra