MLB Spring Training 2012: When Will Boston Call Up Will Middlebrooks?

The Boston Red Sox made their first set of spring training cuts yesterday, including prospect third baseman Will Middlebrooks, according to Evan Drellich of MLB.com. The move was relatively predictable, as Boston currently still fields Kevin Youkilis at third base and doesn't have another spot on the roster that Middlebrooks could fill. Middlebrooks is currently Boston's No. 1 prospect according to several sources, including SoxProspects.com.

In order for Middlebrooks to have made the Opening Day roster, he would've had to have an unbelievable spring training that would blew manager Bobby Valentine and the other coaches away. Appearing in nine spring training games over the last few weeks, Middlebrooks went 6-19 (.316) with two runs and a single RBI. 

The 6'4" third baseman spent majority of 2011 in Double-A Portland, where he hit .302/.345/.520 with 18 home runs, 80 RBI and 54 runs while playing a solid third base. After being called up to Triple-A Pawtucket, Middlebrooks had a tough time adjusting, hitting .161 in 16 games and committing three errors at third base in just 14 games.

The true question is when—when will Boston call up Will Middlebrooks to become the everyday third baseman?

Well, one answer could end up being July 31st or, in other words, the trade deadline. According to FOX Sport's John Morosi, teams are looking to improve at third base and Kevin Youkilis could become available if Middlebrooks is ready. Youkilis is entering the final year on his three-year contract, but Boston does hold a club-option for 2013. He is only owed $12 million this season and would be paid $13 million in 2013, should Boston decide to exercise the option.

This could be the most attractive option for Boston, as they could move around some salary and make a good baseball move in calling up their top prospect. If a deal isn't made to move Youkilis, we would probably see Middlebrooks in September when the rosters expand. At the latest, Middlebrooks should be the starting third baseman in Boston on Opening Day in 2013.