{
  "id": 5156068,
  "title": "10 September call-ups to watch, from Ethan Salas and Lazaro Montes to Will Smith and Tommy Pham",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/10-september-call-ups-to-watch-from-ethan-salas-and-lazaro-montes-to",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-02T19:40:51.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/article/10-september-call-ups-to-watch-from-ethan-salas-and-lazaro-montes-to-will-smith-and-tommy-pham-194051921.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "September brings an influx of 28 MLB roster spots for teams to bolster their lineups and pitching staffs. While the expansion isn't as expansive as it once was, these additional players can still make a significant impact in the latter stages of the season. Here are 10 noteworthy September call-ups to keep on your radar:\n\n1. Ethan Salas, San Diego Padres: The 20-year-old catcher from Venezuela made his major-league debut in September 2026, quickly establishing himself as one of the most promising prospects in the game. Salas' professionalism and baseball IQ will be crucial for the struggling Padres as they chase a postseason berth.\n\n2. Will Smith, Los Angeles Dodgers: After battling neck inflammation throughout June, Smith finally made his return to the Dodgers' lineup in September. The veteran's defensive skills and bat could be the spark the Dodgers need to overcome their offensive struggles.\n\n3. Lazaro Montes, Seattle Mariners: The 21-year-old Cuban brought an infectious energy to his major-league debut in September, smashing his first career homer in the process. Montes' positive attitude and left-handed power could provide a much-needed boost to the Mariners' lineup.\n\n4. Ronel Blanco, Houston Astros: After a brief stint in Triple-A, Blanco returned to the Astros' rotation in September, delivering four scoreless innings in his first start back. The right-hander's potential as a rotation fixture could be a game-changer for the Astros' playoff hopes.\n\n5. Tommy Pham, Tampa Bay Rays: Despite a rocky start to the season, Pham has shown flashes of his elite talent in September. The outfielder's speed and contact skills could prove valuable as the Rays battle for a wild-card spot.\n\n6. Connor Griffin, Pittsburgh Pirates: At just 19 years old, Griffin has already made his major-league debut in September. The pitcher's raw stuff and mental toughness could make him a key piece for the Pirates in their push for a wildcard spot.\n\n7. Hector Santiago, Chicago Cubs: The 23-year-old pitcher made his debut in September, pitching a solid inning of work to showcase his potential. Santiago's consistent control and promising fastball could make him an asset for the Cubs in the stretch run.\n\n8. Lorenzo Cain, Milwaukee Brewers: The 33-year-old outfielder made his return to the Brewers' lineup in September, providing valuable veteran leadership and a left-handed bat. Cain's experience and defensive abilities could be crucial for the Brewers' playoff push.\n\n9. Kris Bryant, Chicago Cubs: The 28-year-old first baseman made his September debut, highlighting his consistency at the plate. Bryant's power and plate discipline could provide a much-needed offensive boost for the Cubs as they chase a wildcard berth.\n\n10. Bobby Witt Jr., Houston Astros: The 22-year-old pitcher made his major-league debut in September, pitching four scoreless innings. Witt's high ceiling and strong stuff could make him a valuable addition to Houston's rotation as they fight for contending status.",
  "summary": "Every MLB team added 2 new faces when rosters expanded on Sept. 1.",
  "key_points": [
    "Ethan Salas, 20-year-old catcher from Venezuela, makes major-league debut in September.",
    "Will Smith returns to Los Angeles Dodgers lineup after neck inflammation.",
    "Lazaro Montes, 21-year-old Cuban, makes major-league debut with first career homer."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Yahoo Sports",
        "title": "MLB Roster Expansions: What to expect from Lazaro Montes, Ethan Salas, more",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/mlb-roster-expansions-what-to-expect-from-lazaro-montes-ethan-salas",
        "published": "2026-09-02T17:29:52.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}