Red Sox top prospect removed from game, but not for promotion or trade

When Red Sox’ top prospect Franklin Arias was removed from Saturday’s Double-A game, speculation quickly spread that he either bypassed Triple-A for a promotion to MLB or was being traded.

Neither was the case, however.

A source told MassLive’s Chris Smith that Arias was removed due to a “manager’s decision.” MassLive’s Chris Cotillo added it also wasn’t due to injury.

There was no further clarification for the removal.

In 29 games for Portland, Arias is slashing .349/.431/.642 with a 1.072 OPS, eight home runs, 23 RBI and four stolen bases.

The Red Sox are dealing with an injury to their starting shortstop after they placed Trevor Story on the 10-day injured list with a sports hernia he’s been battling since April. Story is contemplating surgery that could sideline him up to 10 weeks.

Marcelo Mayer could be in the mix to play shortstop if Story is out long-term.

“I know the big question is Marcelo. Everyone’s gonna want to know that,” interim manager Chad Tracy said. “I do think part of that depends on knowing what’s happening with Trevor. Is this a three-week thing and he’s back quick or is this a longer thing?

“We have definitely kicked around that we know Marcelo has played short and he has done it his whole life,” he continued. “No. 1, it’s not something we’re going to do right now, and No. 2, we can’t just fire him over there if we’re gonna do that. He’d need to get some work. He has taken no ground balls anywhere but second.”

Arias is back in the Sea Dogs’ lineup for Sunday’s game. He’s hitting in the leadoff spot and playing shortstop.

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