Majority of callups to come after PawSox's playoff run

BOSTON -- The Red Sox will be in a bit of a tricky situation when rosters expand from 25 players to 40 on Sunday, but it is by no means a bad one.

With a division-clinching win Friday night, Triple-A Pawtucket is headed to the playoffs, meaning the organization will have to manage the delicate balance between the Major League team's needs and giving the members of the PawSox the opportunity to play for the Governor's Cup.

"Given the stage of a number of guys that are there, particularly the younger guys on their way up, I think those settings are invaluable -- even if it's guys that have made their debut already," Red Sox manager John Farrell said. "To feel a sense of urgency is always a good thing when it comes to either making a pitch or a play in some key spots."

That said, Farrell expects the team to call up "probably three or four" players Sunday to immediately supplement the 25-man roster, specifically a pitcher, a catcher and an infielder.

"The names attached to those positions are coming shortly," Farrell said.

Catcher Ryan Lavarnway, who has hit .283 in 19 big league games this year, is a prime candidate, as is recently acquired utility infielder John McDonald. The Sox could also opt to bring up infielder Brock Holt or reinstate third baseman Brandon Snyder from the disabled list.

In the outfield, Quintin Berry, whom the Royals traded to the Sox this week and stole a perfect 21 bases in 21 tries for Detroit last season, could be promoted to serve as a pinch-runner.

Pawtucket also has a stable of right-handed relievers who have seen time in the Majors this season, of whom the Sox will likely select one to come to Boston on Sunday. That group includes Pedro Beato, Rubby De La Rosa, Jose De La Torre and Brayan Villarreal.

The Red Sox will likely wait until Pawtucket's season ends to promote younger players such as Jackie Bradley Jr. and Allen Webster.

"The remainder of who we decided -- or are in the process of deciding -- will come probably at the end of Pawtucket's playoff run," Farrell said.