After tonight, focus shifts to the next Knight
So what about Eloy?
Now that Michael Kopech, the Sox’ top pitching prospect, is set to make his major-league debut Tuesday, everyone wants to know if their top position player is close behind.
As usual, general manager Rick Hahn is not telling.
“We’re judging each individual based on what’s best for them,’’ Hahn said. “As for Eloy, he’s going to remain in [Class AAA] Charlotte at this time and continue on the path that he’s on, and we’ll certainly continue to evaluate where he’s at in the coming weeks. And when the time comes, we’ll explain the logic behind whatever decision with regards to the rest of his 2018 season as well.”
If Jimenez does get promoted, the Sox likely would do it when they’re at home as they did with Kopech and with Yoan Moncada last season. Their next homestand begins the first weekend of September against the Red Sox. Rosters can expand on Sept. 1, and Charlotte’s season ends on Sept. 3.
Hahn repeatedly has maintained that Jimenez’s service-time clock, which could be kept on hold until mid-April of next season in much the same way the Cubs did with Kris Bryant in 2015, is not a factor. Waiting until then would mean that Jimenez would be under Sox control through 2025 instead of 2024.
Jimenez’s bat looks more than ready. He was batting .338 with 10 homers in 41 games since his promotion to Charlotte. After he was named Sox minorleague hitter of the month in August two weeks ago, director of player development Chris Getz told a radio audience that Jimenez was “very close” to the majors, creating some buzz, which, as it turned out, was unwarranted.
“Everyone in Triple-A is close,’’ Hahn said Monday. “By definition, they are a level away from being in the big leagues. There was not any intention in terms of foreshadowing an imminent move with that comment. It was just a statement about him making progress this year and obviously being one level away from making his major-league debut.’’