April 18, 2019 at 12:00 PM
Minor Notes: Swihart DFA'd, Holt begins rehab assignment
Here are Thursday's minor league notes:
- Tuesday was a busy day for player movement, with the big story being Blake Swihart (pictured, right) being designated for assignment. Swihart was a first-round pick in 2011, with the pick being received as compensation for losing Adrian Beltre to Texas in free agency. Swihart was the top prospect in the system at the end of the 2014 season after he hit .293/.341/.469 in 110 games between Portland and Pawtucket.
- With Dustin Pedroia leaving Wednesday's game in New York with left knee discomfort, Brock Holt's ability to play multiple positions is as valuable as ever on the major league team. Holt started a rehab assignment on Tuesday in Pawtucket, and he is expected back in Boston soon.
- Also on Tuesday, the Red Sox optioned Marcus Walden to Pawtucket and called up Erasmo Ramirez. Ramirez pitched the final three innings in relief of Chris Sale on Tuesday, allowing four runs. Walden had pitched well for Boston, striking out 11 over eight innings with a 3.38 ERA.
- The other roster moves from this week were Matthew Gorst being added to Pawtucket, and Dominic LoBrutto being called up to Portland.
- The Salem Red Sox will have a new look for select games this year, as they will become the Salem Beer Mongers every Thursday, starting on May 2. The name is a nod to the growing craft beer industry in the state of Virginia.
Photo Credit: Blake Swihart by Kelly O'Connor