The greatest September call-ups in MLB history

September 2, 2025

September Roster Expansions in MLB

September has long been the time for Major League Baseball teams to bring up prospects as the minor league season wraps up. This tradition, in place since 1910 due to roster restrictions, allows teams to expand their rosters, potentially including as many as 40 players. However, some argue this expanded roster can shift teams’ strategies during crucial stages of the season. As of 2020, the league reduced the September roster expansion to 28 players.

This time of year presents a unique opportunity for emerging talent to influence pennant races. For instance, rookie Shane Spencer left a mark back in 1998 by hitting eight home runs and batting .421 for the championship-winning Yankees. Several standout performances from September call-ups have occurred during their debut month.

Prominent Prospects Who Made Their Mark

Fred Lynn, Red Sox (1974)

Before being drafted by the Red Sox in 1973, Lynn was a standout at USC. He made his big league debut the following September. Initially coming off the bench, he soon secured his first starting role on September 15. Despite some ups and downs, Lynn shined, going 5-for-4 on one notable occasion, narrowly missing a home run for the cycle.

Manager Darrell Johnson admitted, “If I had taken him out, the fans would have lynched me.” Lynn’s performance, at .419/.490/.698 over 15 games, hinted at his future successes, where he would go on to win both Rookie of the Year and AL MVP honors.

J.D. Drew, Cardinals (1998)

Drew was the second overall pick in the 1997 draft but ended up with the Cardinals after the Phillies failed to meet his contract demands. By September of that year, he was capturing attention with impressive contact and power at the plate. He hit two home runs in a single game shortly after his debut, finishing those 14 games with an impressive .417/.463/.972 line.

“What stood out to me was his calmness,” said teammate Mark McGwire. “Nothing seems to rattle him.”

Josh Beckett, Marlins (2001)

Beckett was the top pitching prospect heading into 2001, and he made his debut after a strong minor league season. He dazzled in his first start against the Cubs, allowing only one hit over six shutout innings. Cubs outfielder Rondell White remarked, “He pitched great tonight… I think he’s going to be around for a while.” Beckett went on to maintain an impressive ERA of 1.50 over his first few starts, eventually helping the Marlins capture a championship.

Craig Wilson, White Sox (1998)

In 1998, Craig Wilson made his mark as a 28-year-old minor leaguer, surprising everyone with a memorable debut. He recorded hits in 12 of his first 13 games with eight being multi-hit efforts. His batting average soared to .468 (22-47), an outstanding figure for anyone with at least 50 plate appearances. Interestingly, he never quite reached that peak again, and his performance was somewhat of a fleeting moment.

Mark Quinn, Royals (1999)

The Royals entered the new millennium with an enviable lineup, and Mark Quinn sought to be part of it. After impressing in Triple-A, he made history with two home runs during his MLB debut. “In a pretty short time, he was like George Herman Ruth,” commented manager Tony Muser. Quinn went on to hit six home runs in just 17 games but struggled with various challenges in subsequent seasons.

Darrick Burton, Athletics (2007)

Burton made his big league debut following a strong postseason performance in September. Although the Athletics were having a tough season, he capitalized on his opportunity, recording multi-hit games right off the bat and hitting .347/.429/.639 over 18 games, securing a spot for the next season.

Marty Bystrom, Phillies (1980)

The Phillies found themselves in a tight three-way race in 1980, and Bystrom made an impressive entrance as a rookie. He threw a complete game shutout against the Mets and didn’t allow a run in his first 20 MLB innings. He finished the month with a stellar ERA of 1.50, marking himself as one of the standout rookies.

David Need, Braves (1992)

By 1992, the Braves were known for their strong pitchers. When David Need stepped onto the field, he quickly earned respect, allowing only one run over seven innings in his debut. In six games, his ERA stood at an impressive 1.17, and though he faced challenges later on, he was initially seen as a promising prospect.

Corey Seager, Dodgers (2015)

Seager entered the league as a top 10 prospect in 2015, making his debut amidst anticipation. He quickly made headlines, recording multi-hit games in his early outings and even hitting his first MLB home run. Despite being thrust into a competitive situation with Jimmy Rollins, Seager managed to secure a spot, batting .337/.425/.561 over 27 games.

Evan Carter, Rangers (2023)

Carter debuted at just 21 during a crucial time for the Rangers, who were vying for a spot in the postseason. He hit four home runs in a week, contributing to his team’s success. Manager Bruce Bochy remarked on Carter’s fearless approach, noting that he has the potential to be a standout player. Carter finished the season on a high note, helping lead the Rangers to their first championship.