San Francisco Giants September call-ups: Players that could have been, and might still be, summoned

Mar 5, 2015; Melbourne, FL, USA; Washington Nationals infielder Kevin Frandsen (19) during the first inning of a spring training baseball game against the New York Mets at Space Coast Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

Apologies for the wonky headline, but September call-ups are tricky business.

With the first of the month came a handful of roster reinforcements for the San Francisco Giants—a new outfielder via trade (Alejandro De Aza), a couple vets returning from injury (Tim Hudson, Angel Pagan) and, of course, a few younger guys from the farm (Hector Sanchez, Cody Hall, Nick Noonan).

That last group being only three might come as a surprise considering the lack of depth the Giants have had in recent weeks. Of course, it’s not San Francisco’s M.O. to load up the dugout during pressure-packed stretch drives. But given the struggles of the starting staff and how few infielders have been able-bodied in recent weeks, I would have expected a couple more names. There is some method to the madness, though.

Other than the complications of rotating players on and off the 40-man roster (a la Noonan for Justin Maxwell), another important consideration is that the River Cats’ and Flying Squirrels’ seasons don’t end until Sept. 7. The Giants could have depleted them of all possible help out the chute—neither is playoff-bound, after all—but a second batch of call-ups is obviously their preference. Don’t ask me why.

Lest we confuse ourselves any more, let’s take a look at who the Giants missed on, but might still make room for.

Next: Onto UTIL call-up