September is a synonym of call-ups in MLB. Rosters expand, and that’s the perfect chance to see highly-touted prospects make his debut in the Majors. But every year we get the chance to see talented youngsters take the field in the final month of the regular season. 2017 is not going to be any different.
Here are three call-ups that are worth watching during September – and possibly beyond during the playoffs:
J.P. Crawford – Philadelphia Phillies
There is no doubt J.P. Crawford has baseball running through his veins. After all, he’s the cousin of Carl Crawford. But the talented infielder is quickly making a name of his own in the big leagues, and he will have his chance to show it during September with an out-of-contention team like the Philadelphia Phillies.
Crawford hit 15 home runs with 63 RBI in the minors this year, and he offers some decent amount of versatility as well. He’s a shortstop by trade, but he can play some third if needed; after all, Crawford is known for his athleticism and his glove. But has developed some power as well, so he could spark Philadelphia’s offense as soon as he adjusts to The Show. He’s one name to watch closely because he can become a big-league regular sooner than later.
Dillon Maples – Chicago Cubs
Dillon Maples is the perfect example of someone who tries hard and doesn’t give up until getting what you want.
The Chicago Cubs reliever was chosen in the 14th round of the 2011 MLB Draft due to his high upside, but he never managed to live up to the hype surrounding him. In fact, he compiled a 4.55 ERA in his six years in the Minors. On the surface, it’s not clear why he got the call to the Majors, but we only need to take a look at his performance in 2017 to understand why he’s currently pitching for the World Series champions.
Maples posted a 2.70 ERA in the minors this year, including an excellent 1.96 ERA with 28 strikeouts and a 13.7 K/9 in 18.1 innings at Triple-A. Granted, it’s one thing to pitch at Triple-A and another one is to pitch in MLB. But it seems he finally put it together this year. And there’s a chance he becomes a big weapon for the Cubs out of their bullpen. Joe Maddon needs him to clinch the NL Central.
Victor Robles – Washington Nationals
Out of the three names mentioned in this article, Victor Robles is by far the most heralded prospect. The 20-year-old Dominican outfielder was considered as the top outfield prospect and the fourth-best in all of baseball according to MLBPipeline. And considering the Nats needed some help in the outfield, calling Robles was a no-brainer.
It remains to be seen what role he will have with the team, though. Since Bryce Harper remains out and Jayson Werth has been dealing with injuries of late, having Robles as an insurance policy is a luxury few other teams have. But since it wouldn’t make sense to bury him on the bench, we can expect Robles to see a decent amount of playing time.
Robles hit an even .300 with 10 HR and 47 RBI in the minors this year. And it’s worth noting he went straight from Double-A to the Majors. He also represented the World Team at the Futures Game this year. And while the Dominican might take a few weeks to adjust, but if he does – watch out. He can be a secret weapon off the bench for the Nats on their (likely) playoff run. He has enough talent to never return to the minors.