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Longshot Ben Taylor makes Red Sox roster as reliever

WASHINGTON — The day-long showers that forced the cancellation of Friday’s exhibition game between the Red Sox and Washington Nationals did nothing to dampen Ben Taylor’s day.

Little more than an afterthought at the beginning of spring training, the 24-year-old righthander was informed he’ll be lining up on the chalk line when the rosters are introduced for Monday’s season opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Not bad for a kid who wasn’t even on the 40-man roster, has only two pro seasons on his resume and hasn’t even played a full season of Double-A ball.

“He’s had a fantastic spring training,” said Red Sox manager John Farrell.