Hot Stove Lunch: Blake Swihart could do more than catch; Jays make a move and more

This is a daily BSJ off-season feature that will arrive in time for your lunch, Monday-Friday.

A spin around the leagues with the latest news, notes, and rumors around Major League Baseball

RED SOX

One of the more intriguing stories to follow in spring training will what the Red Sox' plans are for Blake Swihart. Swihart is out of options, meaning the Red Sox can't send him to the minors without the risk of losing him on waivers.

That means Swihart, who's battled injuries the last two seasons, is almost assured of making the Red Sox' Opening Day roster.

As Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic notes, the Red Sox are getting lots of calls from teams interested in Swihart. But Dave Dombrowski indicates within the piece that the Sox want to hold on to Swihart.

He could serve as the team's third catcher. He could play some first base and some outfield. And maybe, just maybe, the Sox could take a look at him at second base, with Dustin Pedroia expected to miss the first two months of the season after undergoing off-season knee surgery.

Swihart has always had a reputation for being athletic. It will be fascinating to see how they utilize that skill.

AL EAST

If the Yankees want to add another big salary, they'll probably have to move David Robertson, writes Joel Sherman.

The Orioles mini-camp is underway in Sarasota.

Even with the loss of Evan Longoria, the Rays' lineup has potential.

The Blue Jays made a move over the weekend to improve their infield depth

AL CENTRAL

After experimenting with Jason Kipnis in the outfield last season, the Indians plan to return him to his natural position at second base.

A look at the White Sox' Top 10 prospects, as determined by Baseball America.

The Royals announced some spring training invitations

AL WEST

The Rangers will have a powerful, versatile lineup for '18

The Oakland A's stadium situation remains unresolved

Dallas Keuchel is out of his walking boot -- and that's good news for the Astros

NL

Noah Syndergaard is, um, different....

TAKE I MAY REGRET IN A MONTH

After the devastation brought by a Hurricane Maria last fall, Puerto Rico can use some uplifting. The arrival of winter ball recently helped brighten things for island residents, as detailed here by Pedro Gomez.

It's been said before, almost to the point of cliché, but baseball has a way of filling a void in the wake of tragedy. It happened after 9/11 and now it's happening in Puerto Rico, too.

Even if it serves only as a temporary distraction, baseball can help the healing in Puerto Rico.