September Call-Ups Could Be Red Sox Game-Changer
Could Red Sox prospects play a bigger role than expected down the stretch?
September roster expansion is approaching fast, which means the Boston Red Sox have choices to make as they push toward October.
Several Triple-A Worcester players might be in line for a call-up once rosters expand to 28, wrote Alex Mayes of Talk Sox. He noted the opportunity could provide valuable rest for regulars and give the club extra versatility during the final stretch of the season.
“The September call-ups will be here before we know it, and the team has to make decisions that can help alleviate some burden on the regulars prior to October,” Mayes wrote.
On the pitching side, Mayes pointed to left-hander Payton Tolle, who already has shown both flashes of promise and growing pains in Triple-A. His four-pitch mix could make him a useful option to slot into the rotation or shift to the bullpen once October begins.
Right-hander David Sandlin also has surfaced as a candidate. Though he has struggled since moving to relief, his work as a starter earlier in the year displayed the kind of upside Boston could use down the stretch.
In the infield, Nate Eaton drew mention as a steady utility presence. Eaton already has appeared in the majors this season and offers the defensive flexibility that can spell regulars without sacrificing too much at the plate. David Hamilton, meanwhile, brings speed and late-inning value, though his overall role would likely be narrower.
Strong minor league numbers will not guarantee a call-up. Mayes explained that while prospects such as Kristian Campbell and Jhostynxon Garcia are producing at Triple-A, the timing might not be right.
With October on the horizon, Boston’s decisions in the coming weeks could help shape how far they go.
