The Red Sox had until 10 days after the end of the 2017 season to decide on the option, but doing so now avoids John Farrell managing next season with lame duck status.
The Nationals have increased their efforts to acquire Chris Sale and were scheduled to meet with the White Sox to discuss the ace on Monday, according to a report.
The Indians made a run at signing Carlos Beltran, but ultimately weren't able to compete with the one-year, $16 million deal he received from the Astros.