Swihart primed for breakout 2018

Rake City alum Blake Swihart has been tabbed as one of the most intriguing players to watch for the Boston Red Sox in 2018.

A first-round draft pick in the 2011 draft out of V Sue Cleveland High School in Rio Rancho, N.M., a fully-healthy Swihart is getting ready to participate in the Red Sox’ Spring Training, doing so with attention that isn’t new to the former top prospect.

Speaking to NESN’s Mike Cole, Swihart said “This is the first time I’ve felt healthy in a year and a half, so it’s going to be fun for me. I know what I can do when I’m healthy and I’m excited to show everybody else what I can do.”

Swihart was drafted as a catcher, but transitioned to the outfield in 2016, and even is being viewed as a potential second baseman as all-star Dustin Pedoria rehabs from injury. A switch-hitter, Swihart says he can play all nine positions, including taking the mound, doing whatever the teams needs him to do as the Red Sox look to advance further than their American League Divisional Series loss to fellow Rake City alum Alex Bregman and the Houston Astros.

Wherever he’s asked to play, Swihart is ready for the spring and to show he is a player that can make in big impact in the big leagues.

“I know what I can do and I know that everybody — all the coaches, even you guys (the media) — know what I can do. You guys have seen it. I just want to be able to prove myself. That’s it.”