MLB Boston Red Sox: 5 Prospects Who Will Make Their Debuts in 2012

Jose Iglesias got his shot to impress the Boston Red Sox in 2011 by being called up during the regular season. Now it is time for the other prospects to make their long-awaited debuts in 2012.

The Sox need to look at the players who showed promise in the minors in 2011 and rely on these arms and bats to get them back into postseason play in 2012.

Alex Wilson, Pitcher

Alex Wilson was named the Sox's best pitcher in the minors in 2011, and he finished the season at 10-4 with a 3.11 ERA and 123 strikeouts in 133 innings.

Wilson will likely see some time in the bullpen towards the middle of the 2012 season for the Sox. He will likely start as the No. 2 starter in Triple-A Pawtucket.

J.C. Linares, Outfielder

J.C. Linares is a 27-year-old Cuban outfielder who missed most of the 2011 season after he tore a ligament in his ankle.

Linares would be a viable option for the Sox to call up if he remains healthy for the 2012 season, and could see a lot of time if Boston does not sign any great free agents to play right field.

Che-Hsuan Lin, Outfielder

Che-Hsuan Lin is probably not going to see much time, as he is still very young and does not have much pop in his bat whatsoever.

Lin is a speedy center fielder and has great plate discipline, but he still should see the nod at being on the 40-man roster only because of the fact that he could be taken in December's Rule 5 Draft.

Will Middlebrooks, Infielder

Will Middlebrooks is the third baseman of the future for Boston and, with the decline of Kevin Youkilis at the hot corner, the Sox need to utilize his talents.

Middlebrooks has great power, but needs to continue to work on his discipline at the plate. Once he works on his kinks, he will be seen in August or September.

Cesar Cabral, Pitcher

Cesar Cabral almost stuck with two clubs in the Rule 5 Draft this past spring, according to espn.com. If he can stay with the Red Sox in 2011, then he will make a great option out of the Boston's bullpen.

Cabral has a really live arm and is a lefty, which the Sox need presently as well as in the future.