Ryan Lavarnway, who is arguably the best right-handed hitter in Boston’s farm system and its No. 3 overall prospect, strolled into the clubhouse unexpectedly a few hours before Wednesday’s Red Sox-Tigers game.
The catcher’s latest promotion to the Majors could be short, as Lavarnway is here to fill out the bench at a time when several players are nicked up.
Lavarnway is taking the roster spot of outfielder Daniel Nava, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a left wrist sprain.
With catcher Kelly Shoppach (shin) and shortstop Mike Aviles (turf toe) both unavailable for Wednesday’s game, that also created a need for Lavarnway’s right-handed bat…
“I loved him in Spring Training, and since [then], he’s continued to make improvements,” said [manager Bobby] Valentine. “Offensively, [Pawtucket manager] Arnie [Beyeler] says he’s definitely ready and will continue to improve, and we hope he continues to improve. Defensively is the same—that he’s ready, but we want him to continue to improve.”
It remains to be seen if Lavarnway will get a chance to catch during this stint in Boston. He caught the final two games of the 2011 season for the Sox, coming up with two big homers and playing solid defense.
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