The Red Sox will be taking full advantage of the Arizona Fall League in October and November. Normally, teams put a few players in the league in order to help them develop by facing tough competition. It is even considered an honor to be selected for the league since it may be an indication that the team views said player as a potential big leaguer in the future. Here’s a look at which seven players the Red Sox put on the Peoria Javelinas:
Michael Chavis — The guy has 29 home runs in 121 games split between high-A and double-A this year while batting .287 with an OPS over .900. Sure, he might strike out a lot and not walk much, but the third baseman is the top bat in the Red Sox farm system.
Brian Johnson — Johnson is in his final option year and has a 4.33 ERA in five starts for the Red Sox. My guess is they want to see what he can do in relief. Another guess: he could still be a September call-up.
Henry Owens — Owens is still plagued by command issues, even in AA. The Red Sox have him working with a lower arm slot, hence why they haven’t dumped him yet. Plus, he does have an option remaining after this season.
Bobby Poyner — The lefty has a 0.97 ERA in 26 AA relief outings this season. He is officially on the Red Sox radar.
Josh Tobias — Remember when some people said the Red Sox got nothing for Clay Buchholz? Well, the Red Sox seem to like Tobias who is hitting .272 with a .677 OPS in AA this season. Not a standout but not bad for a second baseman either.
Ty Buttrey — The reliever struck out 53 batters over 43.2 AA innings this season, but has since struggled with command since being promoted to AAA. Perhaps the Red Sox work things out there.
Chad De La Guerra — The dark horse shortstop prospect is hitting .288 with an .805 OPS in AA this season.