Red Sox fans are hyped about potentially calling up youngster Franklin Arias, but there are some serious roster decisions looming for Boston, decisions that are way more complicated than just hitting a button. Even with September 1 on the horizon, when teams can call up two extra players and expand rosters from 26 to 28, the situation is already tight.
The Roster Crunch Is Real, Even With Expansion
Folks are looking forward to Arias making his debut around that September 1 date, thinking it’ll be a smooth move. But hold up, that expanded roster isn’t just a free pass for new faces. The biggest wrinkle? Trevor Story isn’t even on the active roster right now! That’s a huge piece of the puzzle many fans seem to be overlooking. Along with Story, Roman Anthony and Garrett Crochet also need to be activated when they return. That’s three guys already needing a spot, and we’re *before* even thinking about Arias. Peter Abraham pointed out that the Red Sox “already have to move on from a guy when rosters expand to 28, and that’s without factoring in Arias.” Talk about a head-scratcher for the front office. And get this: one of those September 1 additions *has* to be a pitcher.
Arias’s Talent vs. Current Performance
So, with Story, Anthony, and Crochet needing spots, where does Arias fit? Abraham noted that Arias’s “talent is hard to ignore.” No doubt about it. But then you look at players currently on the active roster, like Monasterio, who’s been absolutely raking since July 1. He’s hitting a crazy .333 with a .946 OPS and plays “passable defense.” Moving on from a guy performing like that is no easy call. The Red Sox have options, sure, and they could decide to part ways with someone to make room for Arias if they believe he’s the guy they need *right now*.
What’s Next for Arias and Boston
It’s also totally possible Boston just brings Arias up in September to get some at-bats and have him travel with the team in October, even if he doesn’t get a ton of playing time. That kind of postseason experience, even from the dugout, can be super valuable for a young player. Given the smart moves the front office has been making lately, seeing them go that route wouldn’t be a surprise at all. We’ll find out what they decide as that Sept. 1 roster expansion deadline quickly approaches.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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