Three promising Bahamian baseball talents, Tavano Baker, Edwin Darville, and Trent Wilson, embarked on their professional journeys with the Boston Red Sox organization. Aged 17, they sealed their deals at the Office of the Prime Minister, hailing from the Maximum Development (MaxD) Sports Academy.
Baker, excelling in the outfield, stands out as one of the Red Sox’s top international prospects. Darville, primarily a shortstop, and Wilson, a pitcher, complete the trio. Their baseball roots trace back to the Freedom Farm Baseball League in Yamacraw, where they started playing at the tender age of seven.
Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis extended his congratulations, emphasizing the positive impact of sports on young individuals. He praised the significance of joining a “good gang” like a baseball team, highlighting the positive values instilled by programs such as Freedom Farm.
Davis encouraged the three athletes to stay focused and determined, considering the challenges many young men face. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for positive development, especially during times when many youths may be drifting.
Heading to the Red Sox rookie level development program in the Dominican Republic, the trio will undergo an instructional camp before joining the Dominican Summer League Red Sox. This Minor League Baseball affiliate features two teams, DSL Red Sox Red and DSL Red Sox Blue.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, Baker thanked the Red Sox, family, and coaches. Darville aimed to excel immediately, acknowledging the support from various circles. Wilson, emphasizing hard work, thanked the Lord, family, friends, and everyone who supported him, urging upcoming athletes to stay focused and humble.
Bahamian Dominique Collie, an international scout in the Red Sox organization and Freedom Farm prospect, played a vital role in securing contracts for the Bahamian athletes. Collie, envisioning a future as a big league manager, expressed the joy of facilitating opportunities for fellow Bahamians.
Greg Burrows Jr., President and Head Coach of MaxD, celebrated the athletes’ development, highlighting the academy’s role in nurturing baseball talent. Burrows expressed fulfillment in contributing to their journeys and emphasized the academy’s commitment to building on the Bahamas’ reputation as a major baseball player breeding ground in the Caribbean.