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The September call-up tradition in Major League Baseball, which has seen prospects get a taste of the big leagues since 1910, has delivered some of baseball’s moast memorable moments. While expanded rosters once allowed teams to carry up to 40 players, a 2020 rule change capped them at 28. Still, this September influx provides a crucial opportunity for young talent to make an impact on pennant races.
September Call-Ups: A History of Instant Impact
Table of Contents
A look back at some of the most dazzling September debuts by MLB prospects.
- Prospects often make their MLB debut in September after minor league seasons conclude.
- Fred Lynn had a stellar 1974 September, batting .419 and previewing his MVP season.
- J.D. Drew made an immediate splash in 1998, hitting .417 with five home runs in just 14 games.
- Josh Beckett debuted in 2001 with six shutout innings,striking out five.
- Craig Wilson posted a remarkable .468 batting average in September 1998, an MLB record for a minimum of 50 plate appearances.
Fred Lynn, Red Sox (1974)
after starring at USC, Fred Lynn joined the Red Sox in September 1974. He made his debut on Sept. 15, homering and doubling in his first start. Manager Darrell Johnson noted,”The way the fans love the kid,they’d have lynched me if I took him out.” Lynn hit .419 with a .698 slugging percentage in 15 games, hinting at his future Rookie of the Year and MVP season.
J.D. Drew,Cardinals (1998)
J.D. Drew quickly made his presence felt after being drafted by the Cardinals in 1998. While Mark McGwire chased the home run record, Drew impressed with contact, power, speed, and a strong arm. He hit .417 with five home runs in 14 games, including multiple multi-homer games. McGwire praised his composure, saying, “The main thing I’m impressed with is his composure. It doesn’t look like anything bothers him.”
Josh Beckett, Marlins (2001)
Considered a top pitching prospect, Josh Beckett debuted for the Marlins against the Cubs in September 2001. He pitched six shutout innings, allowing just one hit and striking out five, fanning Sammy Sosa among them. Cubs outfielder Rondell White remarked, “He pitched great tonight. Give him credit. I think he’ll be around for a while.” Beckett finished the month with a 1.50 ERA, and two years later, helped lead the Marlins to a World Series title.
Craig Wilson,White Sox (1998)
Craig Wilson,a career minor leaguer,went on an unexpected tear after his 1998 September call-up.He collected hits in 12 of 13 starts, with eight multi-hit games, and showed surprising power, hitti
Carlos Correa, Astros (2015)
Carlos Correa, the top overall pick in the 2012 draft, was called up by the Astros in June 2015, but his impact was felt in September. He hit .337 with four home runs in 27 games and started the NLDS that fall.
Evan Carter, Rangers (2023)
Evan Carter, just 21, made his MLB debut for the Rangers during a pennant race in September 2023. He hit four home runs in his first week, contributing to an 8-4 stretch for the team. Manager Bruce Bochy marveled at his demeanor: “He’s not in awe of anything. He’s got that no-fear attitude.” carter batted .306 with five home runs in 23 games, and continued his strong play in the postseason, helping the Rangers win their first championship.
Honorable Mention
Notable september call-ups also include Steve Busby (Royals
