Promotions for Lavarnway, Weiland & Spears
When the rosters expanded to 40 players on September 1, the Red Sox only made one call up and that was pitcher Felix Doubront. On Monday, the Sox called up three more players who could play an integral role as reserves for the final month of the season.
Catcher Ryan Lavarnway, right handed pitcher Kyle Weiland and infielder/outfielder Nate Spears were all summoned from Pawtucket AAA on holiday Monday. For Lavarnway and Weiland it’s their second stint in the majors this season, while Spears is getting his first glimpse of the major league lifestyle.
Lavarnway was just recently playing for Boston during August, serving as a designated hitter when David Ortiz was battling an injury to his heel. This time around, Lavarnway will serve as the Red Sox third catcher, but could see pinch hitting duties. During his brief stay in August, the hard hitting catcher saw action in seven games, went 7 for 23 at the plate (.304 BA), with two doulbes and 3 RBI.
For Weiland, it marks his first call up since early July where he started two games, threw 10.0 innings, gave up 10 hits and 9 earned runs for an ERA of 8.10 to go with his 0-1 record. Look for Weiland to provide some long inning relief work during this go round. Although, with the amount of injuries to the Red Sox current rotation, he could become a valuable spot starter.
For prospect Nate Spears, this marks his first experience of not having to carry your own gear to the ballpark, no long bus rides and having the media sworm you before and after every game. Welcome to the big leagues kid.
The 26-year old has spent the entire season in Pawtucket, hitting .248, with 19 doubles, two triples, 8 homers and 45 RBI. Weiland could see action all over the field as his versatility could provide some rest for a few current players who are battling some nagging injuries; Josh Reddick, Jed Lowrie and most recently Conor Jackson.
For all the latest news and analysis from BoSox Injection, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or with our RSS feed.