Craig Breslow Addresses Roman Anthony’s Red Sox Promotion Timeline

Kristian Campbell became the first member of Boston’s “Big Three” to reach the majors, and Red Sox fans await Roman Anthony’s arrival to the big leagues.

Anthony and Marcelo Mayer flashed their talent in spring training, but Campbell made the Opening Day roster as Boston’s starting second baseman. There is plenty of outfield depth, but Anthony’s talent coupled with possible injuries could open the door for the 20-year-old. The club’s top brass still would like to see more from the Red Sox top prospect.

“What we saw in spring training is a very mature approach,” Craig Breslow said this week, per MassLive’s Chris Cotillo. “Good strike zone discipline. That’s getting tested a little bit right now. A little bit more punch-out than we’re used to seeing, but it’s super early.

“Developmentally, (getting him) a little more comfortable playing in the outfield. And then also getting him exposed to left-on-left, making sure he can handle that. He has done significant damage vs. right (handed pitchers) and we trust that long-term, it’s not going to be an issue, but in the short-term, giving him a chance to get exposed to left-handed pitching is the thing that’s front of mind right now.”

The Prospect Promotion Incentive program likely won’t play a factor in Anthony’s potential promotion. MLB implemented the PPI program to allow teams to secure a draft pick if a player who spent the majority of their rookie season in the majors wins certain awards. The Red Sox would receive a first-round pick if Campbell wins American League Rookie of the Year or finishes top three in AL MVP voting. Breslow assured the PPI program won’t be a factor for Anthony or Mayer.

“We have to do what’s best for each individual player and if we do that, we’re going to do what’s best for the team,” the Red Sox chief baseball officer said. “All of those incentives are well and good if they fall into place. If that’s the driver of the decision, you’ve got the wrong priorities.”

Anthony hit .167 in nine games with Triple-A Worcester this season, but he also recorded a .808 OPS and still is hitting the ball very hard with two home runs and four RBIs. It’s a matter of if and not when Anthony gets called up, but the Red Sox will take their time for when he is ready for the majors.