Boston, MA – The Boston Red Sox 2014 Rookie Program started today at Fenway Park. Ten of Boston's top prospects will take part in the week-long program, which focuses on easing their transition into becoming major league players with the Red Sox.
Nine of the participants were in the organization for all or part of 2013: pitchers Matt Barnes, Henry Owens, Noe Ramirez, and Anthony Ranaudo; catchers Blake Swihart and Christian Vazquez; and infielders Garin Cecchini, Deven Marrero, and Travis Shaw. Also taking part will be pitcher Dalier Hinojosa, who was acquired by the club after the regular season.
The program includes two workouts daily that emphasize conditioning and strength training as well as concentration on fundamentals. In addition, the players are attending a number of seminars that will focus on the assimilation into major league life off the field. They will also visit Boston Children's Hospital and will paint murals at the McKinley Middle School in Boston alongside members of the Red Sox Scholars program.
A number of individuals will speak to the group, including President/Chief Executive Officer Larry Lucchino, Executive Vice President/General Manager Ben Cherington, manager John Farrell, hitting coach Greg Colbrunn, pitching coach Juan Nieves, bullpen coach Dana LeVangie, Coordinator of Sports Medicine Service Dan Dyrek, Head Athletic Trainer Rick Jameyson, and Boston Celtics President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge.
Follow Ian on Twitter @soxanddawgs. And be sure to like us on Facebook as well.
