Red Sox Option Alfredo Aceves to Triple A

September 26, 2012; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox pitcher Alfredo Aceves (91) prior to a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

While it is not yet known for whom he has been optioned to Triple A Pawtucket, the Red Sox announced after their 6-5 win over the Oakland As Wednesday that Alfredo Aceves was heading down to the farm. It is highly likely that Aceves was optioned to make room for Jon Lackey.

Boston’s decision comes one day after Aceves tanked in a start against the As in which he yielded eight runs in 3 1/3 innings, skyrocketing his ERA for the year to 8.66.

Manager John Farrell told WEEI, “The bottom line is just that: The bottom line. You’ve got to perform to continue to get opportunities. I’ve had a chance to meet with Alfredo [on Wednesday] just to discuss [Tuesday] night — not so much the role going forward. But it still comes down to continuing to earn those opportunities. There’s been mixed results over the time period [since last August].”

Aceves’ demotion could get very interesting from both a career and salary perspective if he stays in the minors for any prolonged period of time . Starting this year Aceves’ service time made him eligible for free agency after the 2014 season. However, if he’s in the minors for more than 13 days, it would delay his free agency until at least after the 2015 campaign.