As September arrives, Major League Baseball teams are permitted to expand their active rosters from 26 to 28 players, with a restriction that only one of these additional spots can be used for a pitcher. This expansion, while not as extensive as pre-2022 policies that allowed teams to activate numerous players from their 40-man rosters, still offers a crucial opportunity for clubs. The 60 extra roster positions across the league can significantly influence the season's conclusion, benefiting both teams pursuing postseason berths and those evaluating talent for future seasons.
This article highlights ten intriguing players called up in September whose performances will be worth monitoring throughout the final month of the regular season. These individuals, some of whom have already made their debuts, represent a mix of rising stars, returning veterans, and strategic additions, all poised to impact their respective teams as they navigate critical stretches of the season. Their contributions could be vital in shaping playoff races and setting the stage for future team compositions.
Emerging Talents and Promising Prospects
September call-ups often shine a spotlight on baseball's future stars, as teams introduce promising young players to the major league stage. These opportunities are crucial for prospects to gain invaluable experience, demonstrate their capabilities under pressure, and potentially secure a more permanent role in the coming seasons. The transition from minor league development to the demanding environment of the MLB can be challenging, but it also offers a unique platform for these emerging talents to prove their worth and contribute to their team's immediate and long-term success.
One such talent is catcher Ethan Salas from the San Diego Padres, who, despite his youth, has rapidly ascended through the minor league ranks. Born in Florida but shaped by Venezuelan baseball, Salas was a highly touted international free agent, signing for a substantial $5.6 million in January 2023. Although his initial full season at High-A in 2024 presented challenges, and 2025 was marred by injury, he rebounded strongly in 2026. Dominating at Double-A and later Triple-A as a teenager, Salas now enters the majors as a 20-year-old, the youngest player in baseball. His potential impact as a catcher for the Padres, who are contending for a wild-card spot, is immense. Similarly, outfielder Lazaro Montes of the Seattle Mariners, a 21-year-old Cuban, quickly made his mark by hitting a home run in his major league debut. Montes' powerful left-handed bat and infectious enthusiasm bring a much-needed boost to the Mariners, offering significant offensive firepower despite some contact issues. These young players represent the fresh talent poised to make a difference in the competitive final month of the MLB season.
Key Returns and Strategic Additions
Beyond new faces, September also brings the return of seasoned players from injury and strategic acquisitions designed to bolster teams for a playoff push. These veterans bring experience, stability, and a proven track record, making their re-entry into active rosters a critical factor. Their ability to quickly regain form and integrate into team dynamics can provide a significant advantage, particularly for clubs navigating tight division races or wild-card battles.
Will Smith, the Los Angeles Dodgers' catcher, is a prime example of a veteran returnee. Sidelined since early June with neck inflammation, Smith's activation in September is vital for the Dodgers. Despite a challenging season at the plate before his injury, his underlying metrics suggest a strong potential for impact, making his bat and defensive leadership crucial as the team addresses recent offensive struggles and builds rapport with their pitching staff for the postseason. Another significant addition is right-handed pitcher Ronel Blanco of the Houston Astros. After a stellar 2024 season, Blanco's progress was interrupted by Tommy John surgery in 2025. Recalled in September, his strong scoreless outing in a recent game offers hope for the Astros' pitching staff, which desperately needs stability as they aim to secure a division title. Additionally, infielder/outfielder BJ Murray Jr., a 15th-round pick from Florida Atlantic, joins the Chicago Cubs. As one of only ten Bahamian-born players to reach the big leagues, Murray's switch-hitting ability and positional versatility, primarily at first and third base, make him a valuable bench option. His balanced offensive production from both sides of the plate, demonstrated in his first major-league hit, highlights his potential to contribute strategically to the Cubs' lineup. These players, through their returns and strategic roles, are poised to make a significant difference in the season's closing weeks.
