Who Will Be The Pittsburgh Pirates' September Call Ups?

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May 17, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates pinch hitter Alen Hanson (59) singles for his first major league hit against the Atlanta Braves during the fifth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Super utility man Alen Hanson

Alen Hanson is a prospect that Pittsburgh Pirates’ fans have heard a lot about in recent years. The former top 100 overall prospects has had plenty of ups and downs in the Minor Leagues, though. Due to this his value has dropped some.

However, in May Hanson made his Major League debut when Starling Marte went on paternity leave. During his three game stint in the Majors Alen Hanson had just two at bats. However, in these two at bats he showed how he can impact a baseball game.

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The switch-hitting Hanson was 1-for-2 during his stint with the Pirates in May. This included Hanson scoring a run. And he scored this run due to his great speed. Hanson was able to go first to third on a play many players do not go first to third on. Then, he would score on a sacrifice fly.

When Hanson’s Minor League career began he was a shortstop. However, due to defensive issues he moved to second base. Now Hanson is a super utility player for Triple-A Indianapolis. This season Hanson has played second base, third base, left field, and right field.

As I said above, maybe Hanson’s best attribute is his speed. He has stolen 36 bases at Triple-A this year, and this comes after stealing 35 last season. In 2014 he swiped 25 bags for Double-A Altoona, and he swiped 30 bags in 2013 between Low-A and High-A.

I fully expect Alen Hanson to be a September call up. He is a switch hitter, his speed can change a game, and he bring positional flexibility. These are all qualities Clint Hurdle loves in a player.

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