Red Sox invite ten to annual Rookie Development Program

The Red Sox have set their yearly Rookie Development Program for January 13 through 18 in Boston. Ten prospects have been invited to participate in the program, reports Alex Speier of WEEI.com: pitchers Henry Owens, Anthony Ranaudo, Matt Barnes, Dalier Hinojosa, and Noe Ramirez, catchers Blake Swihart (pictured) and Christian Vazquez, first baseman Travis Shaw, shortstop Deven Marrero, and third baseman Garin Cecchini. 

The annual program helps players that may debut within the next year deal with the physical and mental parts of playing in the major leagues, while getting them better acquainted with the big league staff and the city of Boston. Along with workouts, the camp includes classroom sessions on topics such as dealing with the media, money management, alcohol, drugs, and umpire relations.

The invited group includes five members of the highly-regarded 2011 draft class. Owens, Barnes, and Swihart were taken in the first round that year along with 2013 participant Jackie Bradley, Jr. Ramirez was chosen in the fourth round and Shaw in round nine. 

Past participants include future All Stars Dustin Pedroia, Jon Lester, Jonathan Papelbon, Clay Buchholz, Hanley Ramirez, Jacoby Ellsbury, and Justin Masterson.

Photo Credit: Blake Swihart by Kelly O'Connor

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