Minor Notes: Chavis, Beeks, others nab year-end honors

Here are this week's minor league notes:

• The Red Sox announced their year-end minor league award winners. Michael Chavis (pictured) was named the system's minor league offensive player of the year, backed by his 31 home runs on the season. Between Salem and Portland, Chavis bounced back in a big way from last season, finishing with a .282/.347/.563 slash line. Jalen Beeks was named Red Sox minor league pitcher of the year, finishing with a record of 11-8 with a 3.29 ERA between Portland and Pawtucket. In 145 IP, Beeks struck out 155 and walked 55.
• In other categories, Austin Rei was named the defensive player of the year. Tate Matheny was named the system's baserunner of the year. Keibert Petit was named the Latin Program offensive player of the year, while Luis Rivero was named that program's pitcher of the year.
• Brian Johnson was also honored, being named the 2017 recipient of the Lou Gorman Award. Created in 2011, the award is given annually to a Red Sox minor league player who has "demonstrated dedication and perseverance in overcoming obstacles while working his way to the major league team."
• Red Sox top pitching prospect Jason Groome will now be represented by The Legacy Agency and agent Eric Izen, according to Robert Murray of FanRag Sports.
• The Red Sox became the first team to sign a prospect from Tibet, bringing on a 16-year-old catcher who played for the Chinese national team. The only debate as of now is what to call him. His birth name is Qiang Ba Ren Zeng. He is listed on the Instructional League roster as Renzeng Qiangba. But according to MLB.com, he likes to go by Justin Qiang.
• Blake Swihart will play winter ball in the Dominican Republic and will focus on catching, according to Christopher Smith of Masslive.com

Photo Credit: Michael Chavis by Kelly O'Connor

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