After Wednesday’s game, the Red Sox optioned swingman Alfredo Aceves to Triple-A Pawtucket after he showed a combination of questionable behavior and ineffectiveness on the mound. Before Thursday’s contest against the Astros, the Red Sox announced their corresponding roster move.
Ryan Lavarnway has been called up from the PawSox to take Aceves’ place on the Boston roster. This means that, if John Lackey is still unable to pitch, Allen Webster would be in line to receive another spot start. The move also gives the Red Sox three catchers, with Lavarnway joining Jarrod Saltalamacchia and David Ross to share time behind the dish.
Lavarnway was hitting .310 with one home run and seven RBIs in 11 games in International League competition, owning a .882 OPS in six minor league seasons. However, in call-ups with Boston the last two seasons, the 25-year-old has struggled, posting a .516 OPS in 209 plate appearances.
