D-backs call up OF Mitch Haniger, option Socrates Brito
Aug 16, 2016, 2:05 PM | Updated: 2:07 pm
Arizona Diamondbacks center fielder Socrates Brito dives for a line out by Philadelphia Phillies' Cesar Hernandez during the third inning of a baseball game, Monday, June 20, 2016, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
(AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
The Arizona Diamondbacks continue to take peeks at what’s on the farm and on Tuesday called up 25-year-old Mitch Haniger.
In turn, the team optioned fellow outfielder Socrates Brito to Triple-A Reno.
Socrates Brito optioned and Mitch Haniger called up for Diamondbacks.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) August 16, 2016
Haniger will have an opportunity as Arizona awaits the return of A.J. Pollock from his rehab assignment.
A more offensively-capable option compared to Brito, Haniger began 2016 with Double-A Mobile and after 55 games was promoted to Triple-A Reno where his numbers improved.
In 64 games with the Reno Aces, the outfielder slashed .351/.437/.697. His 228 at-bats at the Triple-A level have produced 80 hits, including 18 doubles, 19 home runs and 56 RBI.
Haniger, who was named the D-backs’ Minor League Player of the Month in July, is set to start Tuesday.
Arizona acquired Haniger, its current No. 13 prospect, in the 2014 trade of Gerardo Parra.
Brito has appeared in 19 games for the Diamondbacks this season. He’s hitting .185 in 54 at-bats that have produced 10 hits, including a double, a triple and two home runs.
