The Boston Red Sox were sitting on a gold mine when it came time for the September call-ups. They had the options of Kristian Campbell, recalling Jhostynxon "The Password" Garcia, giving an opportunity to prospects like Connelly Early, or even allowing Cooper Criswell the chance to shine again.
But the Red Sox didn't promote any of those names, instead going with the safer options: Reliever Zack Kelly and catcher Ali Sanchez. Neither promotion is fixing Boston's offense after Roman Anthony's injury, which is disappointing at a time in the season when every win matters.
What's even worse is that Nate Eaton and Nick Sogard are still on the major league roster, and the latter's call-up was the corresponding move after Anthony went down. Hopefully, this is only temporary, because there shouldn't be a reason why other options, especially Campbell, aren't in Red Sox manager Alex Cora's plans.
Red Sox Must Call Up Krisitan Campbell to Replace Nate Eaton
It doesn't matter if Garcia doesn't get called up again this year, as he's most likely trade bait in the coming offseason for a possible Joe Ryan deal (or for someone else). It doesn't even matter if Sogard is the corresponding move to Anthony's injury. The problem is that Campbell is not on the roster.
Sogard is okay, and he should definitely be on the big-league roster. But Eaton doesn't and should be replaced by Campbell.
Eaton is only staying because he's swinging a good bat (somewhat), and he has speed on the basepaths. Since September started, he's been playing like his life is on the line, and rightfully so. He's recorded five hits in eight at-bats, with one walk and a strikeout in those three games. Still, it's doubtful he can maintain that success in the long run.
Meanwhile, Campbell is on fire with Triple-A Worcester. He had a six-RBI game on Tuesday and nearly hit for the cycle. He's batting .272 with eight home runs, 36 RBIs, two triples, nine doubles, and 32 walks in 224 at-bats since his demotion on June 19.
If that's not deserving of a promotion, the Red Sox may as well not make any more call-ups. His swing mechanics could be the only thing that's holding him back at this point. Regardless, Red Sox fans want Campbell back in Boston, and now it's more of a demand than begging or pleading.
It's time for Craig Breslow to make the call he should've already made.