Yankees call up Brendan Beck for Red Sox doubleheader
The New York Yankees called up right-hander Brendan Beck as their "27th Man" for Saturday's doubleheader against the Boston Red Sox, while Max Fried will start Game 2 after a quick return from a left elbow bone bruise. Beck adds bullpen depth after Friday's 1-0 shutout win over their archrivals.
Fresh off Cam Schlittler and three relievers shutting out Boston on Friday, the Yankees needed extra arms for the twin bill at Yankee Stadium. The team announced Beck's promotion ahead of Saturday's two games against the Red Sox — a pivotal AL East series that continues to draw celebrity breaking news attention across the league.
Key Takeaways
- Brendan Beck was designated the Yankees' 27th man for Saturday's doubleheader against Boston.
- Max Fried will start Game 2, returning from his second injured list stint of the season.
- Beck has a 2.75 ERA in Triple-A but a 9.45 ERA across two MLB appearances this year.
- Carlos Rodón starts Game 1; the Yankees have not announced who will leave the roster for Fried.
- Yerry De los Santos, Michael Fulmer, and Justin Topa are the most likely candidates to depart between games.
Why did the Yankees call up Brendan Beck?
Doubleheaders require a 27th player, and Beck gives manager Aaron Boone a flexible option on Saturday. The 27-year-old right-hander can soak up innings in a blowout or serve as a long reliever in a pinch, according to Yahoo Sports.
Beck has pitched in two MLB games this season, starting one and covering 6.2 innings combined. His major league line stands at a 9.45 ERA with seven hits, five walks, and four strikeouts. His first spot start went much better than his second outing, though the small sample leaves room for improvement at the big league level.
How has Beck performed in Triple-A?
Most of Beck's work has come at the Triple-A level, where he has been far more effective. As a full-time starter, he has posted a 2.75 ERA across 121 innings with 133 strikeouts and 37 walks. His last appearance came on August 15, leaving him rested and available for a significant workload on Saturday if the Yankees need it.
When is Max Fried returning to start?
The Yankees confirmed Fried will be activated to start Game 2 of the doubleheader — a fast turnaround from his second injured list stint this season. He was placed on the IL on August 17, retroactive to August 14, with a left elbow bone bruise.
The ailment proved less serious than feared, allowing the 32-year-old left-hander to return for a critical series against Boston. Fried owns a 2.81 ERA in 86.1 innings this season and gives the Yankees a top starter back in the rotation for the nightcap.
Who leaves the Yankees roster for Fried?
The Yankees have not yet announced which player will depart the active roster to make room for Fried. Carlos Rodón is set to start Game 1 of the doubleheader, so no roster change is needed until between games.
Elmer Rodríguez, who tossed six innings in a Wednesday start, was among the candidates to be optioned — but Boone announced Rodríguez will start Monday in Anaheim. That leaves De los Santos, Fulmer, and Topa as the most likely options. De los Santos is the only one with remaining options who would not require a designation for assignment, making him a probable choice before Game 2.