June 8, 2005
Methodist’s Maxwell selected by Boston Red Sox in Major League Amateur Draft

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Blake Maxwell’s future plans in Major League Baseball might include a view at the famous “Green Monster” in hallowed Fenway Park in Boston.

The Methodist Monarch right-hander was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in Wednesday’s second day of the 2005 Major League Amateur Draft. Officially, Maxwell was the 1,216th overall selection in the draft, chosen in the 40th round. The draft consists of 50 rounds total.

Maxwell, who is currently playing for the Fayetteville SwampDogs in the Coastal Plain League, becomes the 19th player in the history of Methodist baseball to either get drafted or sign a professional contract. He was also the only player from the USA South Athletic Conference to get drafted.

“We’re very proud of Blake and the accomplishments he’s had in our program,” said Methodist head coach Tom Austin. “He’s worked very hard to reach this goal, and he’s deserving of this honor. It's a testament to great job that (assistant coach) Kevin Allingham has done with our pitchers.

“We’d love to have him back, but if he chooses to sign, we wish him all the best.”

A junior from Hope Mills, N.C., Maxwell had another stellar season as the Monarchs’ closer, garnering first team All-USA South Athletic Conference and second team Division III All-South Region honors. The imposing 6-6, 255-pound right-hander went 3-1 with a 2.19 ERA with 39 strikeouts and 11 walks in 37 innings of work.

He tied his Methodist single-season record for saves with nine, and led the USA South in both saves and appearances. In addition, Maxwell was tied for third in the nation in saves at the Division III level. For his career, Maxwell increased his Methodist all-time record for saves to 22.