ESPN's Peter Gammons is reporting that a source told him John Smoltz has refused an option to the minor leagues. That leaves the Red Sox with two options-trade him or release him. Gammon's colleague at ESPN, Buster Olney has reported in recent days that several teams have interest in Smoltz. However, it's hard to imagine that any team wanting to claim him wouldn't also expect financial consideration from Boston. If he is cut, any team that signs him would only have to pay the prorated league minimum and Boston would have to pick up the $5 million+ remaining on his contract.
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