In 2021, the Boston Red Sox owned the No. 4 overall pick in the MLB draft, the highest pick the organization possessed since 1967. The club used that coveted selection on the player who was rated the top prospect in that draft class by MLB Pipeline — Chula Vista, California, prep shortstop Marcelo Mayer.

The 22-year-old infielder made his big-league debut May 24 when the Red Sox placed All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman on the injured list with a quad strain. When Bregman returned two weeks ago, the Red Sox opted to keep Mayer up and option fellow infielder David Hamilton, who was recalled Friday to take the roster spot.

Mayer's infield versatility impacted Boston this season, particularly at third base and second base. David Hamilton earned a call back to the big leagues as the corresponding move. The Red Sox will also lean more on platoon players in Romy Gonzalez and Abraham Toro to move around and produce.

Ceddanne Rafaela will play second base for the Red Sox on Friday in the opener of a three-game series against the Dodgers.