Cooper Criswell, who was also battling for a spot in the rotation, is optioned to Triple-A Worcester.

Joely Rodriguez and Lucas Luetge can opt out of their contracts if they don’t get a spot on the Opening Day roster.

Many wondered if Schilling would even be invited after he disclosed the private cancer battles of the late Tim and Stacy Wakefield.

Brayan Bello, 24, signed a $55 million contract earlier this month and will be Boston’s youngest Opening Day since Aaron Sele in 1995.

Kenley Jansen was held out of Monday’s game with back stiffness, but is set to throw Tuesday. ‘It needs to happen,’ says Manager Alex Cora.

Ceddanne Rafaela, a candidate to be Boston’s starting center fielder, hits a three-run homer in the Spring Breakout game against the Braves.

Valdez, who played in 49 games for Boston last season, is the favorite to fill in for injured newcomer Vaughn Grissom.

Tommy John surgery could have sidelined Lucas Giolito until after the 2025 All-Star break, while the brace procedure may cost him less than 12 months.

Lucas Giolito was able to avoid ligament replacement surgery, which he had on Aug. 31, 2012.