Red Sox Place Alex Wilson On DL, Recall Brandon Workman

Making their second roster move of the day, the Red Sox have sent struggling reliever Alex Wilson to the disabled list and called up prospect Brandon Workman. Ever since being drafted in the second round back in 2010, Workman has consistently posted some of the best numbers in the Red Sox’ farm system. He has never been especially regarded, viewed more as a low-ceiling, low-floor prospect. However, he will make his way to the Red Sox before most of his more highly regarded counterparts albeit as a reliever.

March 24, 2013; Clearwater, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Brandon Workman (95) throws a pitch during the first inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Bright House Networks Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Workman has been a starting pitcher for his entire minor league career, and has had great success in that role. In a 2013 season split between Double-A Portland and Triple-A Pawtucket, Workman has pitched to a 3.21 ERA and 108:30 strikeout to walk ratio in 101 innings pitched. Workman has some of the best control in the organization and his 2.67 BB/9 is better than nearly any other Red Sox prospects; however, his stuff has also played well as a professional as he has a 9.62 K/9, also one of the best marks in the system.

Still, despite all the success he has had in the minors there are some who believe he is destined to be a reliever. More a testament to the strength of the Red Sox system than Workman’s skill level, this could be true. In this likely short stint in the majors, Workman will have the chance to prove he can have success in a bullpen role.