Montreal splurged this season, choosing not only to activate Francis Beltran, Tomo Ohka, and Jon Rauch from the DL but also to call up Trent Durrington, Brendon Harris, SS-R Josh Labandeira, and Valentin Pascucci this September.

The Expos drafted Labandeira out Fresno State University with a sixth round pick in the 2001 draft. He spent the remainder of that season at Vermont in the Short-Season New York-Pennsylvania League, advanced to A Clinton in the Midwest League in 2002, and split 2003 between A+ Brevard County in the Florida State League and AA Harrisburg in the Eastern League. Returning to Harrisburg this year, the 25-year-old hit .270 with a .357 OBP and .381 on 139 H, 22 2B, 4 3B, and 9 HR with a 53:92 BB:K and 9/14 SB% in 514 AB. While he likely needs to spend at least a half season at AAA, Labandeira possesses promising plate discipline complimented by modest power and speed skills.

With Alex Gonzalez gone and Jose Vidro on the disabled list, Macier Izturis and Jamey Carroll likely will split the second base and shortstop playing time for the remainder of the season. However, Labandeira should participate in a few games as the Expos' primary defensive replacement in the middle infield over the remainder of the year, giving him a chance to experience the majors in a low-pressure situation. Henry Mateo is unable to play the field due to a sore right shoulder and will undergo surgery following the season.