As expected, Mike Lowell will get his first start at designated hitter this season on Thursday afternoon and David Ortiz will be given the day off.
Lowell has played just one game this season, starting at third base on Saturday night in Kansas City. He went 1-for-4 at the plate and made a spectacular diving play to his right at third base.
Ortiz, whose struggles have been followed closely by fans and media alike, reached base twice on Wednesday afternoon in Minneapolis. He walked in the third but was caught stealing. He doubled in the top of the ninth, but he also struck out twice, bringing his season total to 13 strikeouts in just 26 at-bats. He leads the majors in that category.
Jeremy Hermida, who delivered with a clutch three-RBI double on Wednesday, will also sit on Thursday in favor of Bill Hall.
Update: Mike Cameron has been scratched from the lineup due to an abdominal strain and will be replaced by Hermida. Hall will move to center field.
The Red Sox lineup is below:
1. Marco Scutaro, SS
2. Dustin Pedroia, 2B
3. Victor Martinez, C
4. Kevin Youkilis, 1B
5. Adrian Beltre, 3B
6. Mike Lowell, DH
7. J.D. Drew, RF
8. Bill Hall, CF
9. Jeremy Hermida, LF
