Top September Call-Ups: National League West
This is part of a six-part series where we breakdown each team's top 2011 September call-up. Links to other divisions can be found here.
Arizona Diamondbacks: Wade Miley
The Diamondbacks have defied most preseason predictions and find themselves leading the National League West. Paul Goldschmidt got the call from the minors earlier in the season and has helped Arizona's chances of reaching the postseason. Fans are still waiting to see if 2011 first round draft pick, Trevor Bauer, will also get called up. Until then, prospectors should keep an eye on left-handed pitcher Wade Miley who is currently 3-1. The Louisiana native isn't projected for the front end of the rotation, but, like most clubs, the Diamondbacks are glad to add a solid lefty to the roster.
Key Cards:
- 2008 Razor Signature Series Autographs Wade Miley (/1499)
- 2008 Razor Letterman Autographs Wade Miley
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Colorado Rockies: Wilin Rosario
The Rockies are out of the chase, but fans should enjoy watching Wilin Rosario, one of the game's top catching prospects. The catcher has plus power at the plate and a strong arm behind the plate. With Triple-A Tulsa, Rosario blasted 21 home runs, but had a slim .249 batting average. The 22-year-old Dominican already has a pair of home runs and three RBIs since being called up.
Key Cards:
- 2008 Donruss Elite Extra Edition Autographs Wilin Rosario (/1099)
- 2008 Donruss Threads Autographs Wilin Rosario (/999)
- 2008 Playoff Contenders Autographs Wilin Rosario
- 2008 Playoff Prime Cuts Autographs Wilin Rosario (/249)
- 2009 Bowman Chrome Prospects Willin Rosario
- 2010 Bowman Chrome Prospects Autographs Wilin Rosario
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Los Angeles Dodgers: Jerry Sands
Jerry Sands spent some time with the Dodgers earlier this season but was sent back down to Triple-A. It's likely that Sands is the first baseman of the future for the Dodgers. The 23-year-old has excellent power but will need to adjust at the plate if he expects to hit for a better average.
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San Diego: James Darnell
James Darnell brings a solid bat and good plate discipline to the Padres, which should translate to a good on-base percentage. Darnell's Triple-A .310 batting average of .310 and 23 home runs are what got him the call this September. The 24-year-old Californian is currently plays third base, but it is uncertain he will stay there.
Key Cards:
- 2008 Donrus Elite Extra Edition Autographs James Darnell (/280)
- 2008 Razor Signature Series Autographs James Darnell (/1499)
- 2010 Bowman Chrome Prospects Autographs James Darnell
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San Francisco: Eric Surkamp
With one of the most dominant pitching staffs in baseball, the addition of 24-year-old lefty Eric Surkamp further reinforces the organization's ability to produce quality hurlers. The former North Carolina Tarheel posted a 1.94 ERA and 170 strikeouts in 148.1 innings with Triple-A Fresno. Fans should expect Surkamp to be a solid fourth or fifth starter in the future, particularly on a pitching-rich team like the Giants.
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