Blake Swihart
Spring stats: 5-for-15, .524 OBP, 1.124 OPS, 6 BBs, 1 HR, 7 Ks
Speaking of Boston products, the Red Sox’s former #2 prospect is currently fighting hard to make the Texas Rangers roster. Blake Swihart went from Boston to Arizona last year, where he hit .136 with the Diamondbacks in 31 games. He’s hoping for a revival in Texas.
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Swihart had the reputation of a great hitter coming out of the draft and into his early minor league years. For whatever reasons, he’s tailed off considerably.
The Rangers felt he was worth an invite to spring training. He’s held his own so far, hitting for a nice average and producing good power. I still think he has a lot to prove, however. It’s going to take more than a solid spring to convince Texas to grant him a roster spot.
The 27-year-old could eventually find his way to the bigs this year if he hits well at Triple-A and if injuries allow throughout the regular season.
Long Shots
Leftfield can open its arms to athletic players who have little to no prior experience there. If a team wants to work a good hitter with no lockdown position into a lineup, left-field is often where that player defends.
The Texas Rangers have a few guys they love but don’t have a guaranteed position for. Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Nick Solak, and Eli White come to mind. All three are athletic and are therefore capable of a transition – even if temporary – to left field. Kiner-Falefa is fighting for third base, Solak second base, and White a utility role.
Texas may see enough in one of them to take a gamble in left to start the year.