Red Sox Push Panic Button With DFA of Swihart

In a shocking move which resembled reckless panic instead of careful planning, the Boston Red Sox designated catcher Blake Swihart for assignment. It is very likely Swihart has played his last game in a Red Sox uniform.

The move is a knee jerk reaction to the Red Sox slow start during which their starting pitchers have struggled (with only David Price having an ERA below 7.00). After Swihart was DFAed, the Sox called up Sandy Leon from Pawtucket. Despite Leon's familiarity with Red Sox ace Chris Sale, the Sox were annihilated 8-0 by the New York Yankees this evening dropping their record to 6-12. They are currently in last place in the AL East, seven and a half games back of the Tampa Bay Rays. A year ago, the Sox began the season 17-2 en route to 108 wins and a World Series title. Lightning seldom strikes twice. Still, while I predicted the Sox wouldn't make the post-season, I wasn't expecting this either.

Swihart was the Red Sox's top draft pick in 2011 and reached the majors in 2015. But the Sox never seemed to know what to do with him. Of course, injuries (particularly to his ankle and hamstring) haven't helped matters. Although a catcher by trade, the Sox were not satisfied with his defense and tried to turn into something of a super utility player. Swihart saw time at first base, second base, third base, left field and right field before returning him behind the plate prior to the start of this season. To expect Swihart to be 100% behind the plate after playing him anywhere but for the past three seasons was to set him up for failure and, in this case, be the scapegoat for the team's inability to replicate a once in a lifetime season.

This might very well be the best thing that could happen Swihart, who turned 27 earlier this month. He will now have a chance to start fresh in a new organization that has a clear path for him.

As for the Red Sox, a 6-12 start is not insurmountable. But they have dug themelves a hole and haphazard roster moves won't turn things around. And if they lose to the Yankees again tomorrow night then I suspect things are going to get worse before they get better.