Red Sox Recall Jackie Bradley Jr.

(WOLO) — Jackie Bradley Jr. is back in the big leagues. After Tuesday’s 3-1 loss to Philadelphia, the Boston Red Sox recalled the former Gamecock from AAA Pawtucket. The Red Sox optioned pitcher Alex Wilson to the minors in order to give themselves another position player with their next two games in a National League park (Philadelphia). Bradley extended his minor league hit streak to 12 games Tuesday night with Pawtucket. The 2010 College World Series Most Outstanding Player had a .360 batting average in 75 at-bats in AAA. Boston manager John Farrell is looking forward to the flexibility of adding a position player to the Red Sox roster and has been encouraged by Bradley’s play with Pawtucket. “Once he got past the shoulder tendinitis and got back on the field, much like we saw in spring training with his defense, two good plays (Monday) night, doubled off a guy with a throw, threw out another runner, home run, a double — he‘s been swinging the bat very well,” Farrell said Tuesday. Bradley will be used as the “extra outfielder” rather than an everyday one, according to Farrell. After a scorching spring training, Bradley became the first rookie in MLB history to walk at least three times and have an RBI on opening day. The starting leftfielder’s big league success didn’t last much longer though. Bradley was moved to the bench and eventually demoted after going just 3 for 31 (.097 avg) at the plate. Barring a breakout performance in the next few days, Bradley’s second stint in the majors is not likely to be a lengthy one. Outfielder Shane Victorino (hamstring) is expected to be activated off the disabled list June 5th.