ATLANTA -- It isn't very often you add a three-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove and former Silver Slugger Award winner as a September callup, but that's exactly what the Red Sox did on Tuesday when Brandon Phillips has his contract selected from Triple-A Pawtucket.
Third baseman Rafael Devers also returned from his rehab stint and activated from the disabled list on Tuesday. Aside from the activation of Chris Sale at some point soon and the possible return of Dustin Pedroia, the Red Sox don't anticipate making any more roster additions.
Despite hitting .285 with 13 homers last season, Phillips couldn't find a job as a free agent. The Red Sox signed the 37-year-old to a Minor League deal on June 27, and he impressed with his attitude and level of play.
"He's done an outstanding job, from everything I've heard," said Red Sox manager Alex Cora. "He played second, third, and he had plenty of opt-outs and he stayed with the team. Sometimes it's not about rewarding people, because he's a talented player. But I do feel that, hey man, he wants to be part of this and I think he can contribute.
"He's a guy, he can hit against lefties, he's been around for a while. He's a good guy in the clubhouse and he can help some of the young kids too, so he'll be with us."
It remains to be seen how much Phillips will play. The Red Sox happen to be deep at the two positions he can play, with Ian Kinsler, Eduardo Nunez, Brock Holt and Devers.
"Yeah, we've got a lot of players, and Raffy's coming, too," said Cora. "That's part of the conversation too. [Phillips] just wants to be here. That means a lot. This is a guy, he's won Gold Gloves and he's been a good player for a while and for him to accept that role and be part of this [is nice]."
In 44 Minor League games this season, Phillips is slashing .304/.348/.474 with five homers and 26 RBIs.
"Talking to [Pawtucket manager Kevin Boles], he's been great in the clubhouse [and] he's been playing well, which is the most important thing."