The Red Sox missed clinching a postseason spot Tuesday night when they opened their home series against the Orioles, but waiting until Wednesday means they’ll have another chance in an atmosphere that is sure to be full of fun.
Fenway Park is opening its gates for a buck to fans who show up with a beard in honor of the 2013 squad. Manager John Farrell did not disappoint when filling out the lineup card — he has all the best beards stacked in the batting order.
Dustin Pedroia is leading off, followed by Shane Victorino. David Ortiz will bat third, and beard brothers Mike Napoli and Jonny Gomes will take up cleanup and five-hole duties, respectively.
A bearded starter will not be taking the mound, as Jake Peavy (3-1, 3.66 ERA for the Sox this year) is pitching against the left-handed Wei-Yin Chen (7-7, 3.99).
The Red Sox need a combination of three wins or Tampa Bay losses to clinch the American League East, but they could at least guarantee themselves a wild card spot Wednesday night depending on how other American League teams fare.
Check out the complete lineups for Wednesday below.
Boston Red Sox (92-60)
Dustin Pedroia, 2B
Shane Victorino, CF
David Ortiz, DH
Mike Napoli, 1B
Jonny Gomes, LF
Daniel Nava, RF
Will Middlebrooks, 3B
Stephen Drew, SS
David Ross, C
Jake Peavy, P
Baltimore Orioles (80-70)
Nate McLouth, LF
Manny Machado, 3B
Chris Davis, 1B
Adam Jones, CF
Nick Markakis, RF
Danny Valencia, DH
Matt Wieters, C
J.J. Hardy, SS
Brian Roberts, 2B
Wei-Yin Chen, P
