According to Joe Davidson, of the Sacramento Bee, the Boston Red Sox have officially signed their 18th round pick in the 2012 MLB Draft, Shaq Thompson.
Thompson has already reported to Boston's spring training facility in Fort Myers, Fla. for workouts. He will play for the club's Rookie Level Gulf Coast League. Thompson said he needs to work on his hitting - he had 18 hits and 18 strikeouts this spring in batting .305 - but he is confident of his defensive abilities. Thompson has exceptional speed in the outfield and on the base paths, and he has a strong arm.
Thompson will also play safety for the University of Washington in the fall. Despite his committment to football, he's an interesting addition to the Red Sox farm system.
Said Grant baseball coach Danny Chavez recently, "I just know the kid has a phenomenal arm and all the speed in the world, and he can track any ball down. He has that great athletic ability and great mental approach, and he's such a quality young man, so why not take a chance on putting him in your organization? This game is all about potential and he's got amazing potential."
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