While this means added interleague excitement for Red Sox Nation, it means headaches for manager Terry Francona, who will have to concoct a designated hitter-less lineup.
In years past, that usually meant putting David Ortiz at first base and Kevin Youkilis at third for a couple of games per series. Now, with Adrian Gonzalez putting together an MVP-caliber season and Big Papi having one of his best starts of his career, it's not that simple. On Monday, as the Sox and Padres prepared for battle at the Fens, Gonzalez was asked whether he'd be willing and able to play outfield to keep both he and Papi's bat in the lineup.
The first baseman is not only willing to accept the challenge if presented, he even has some experience in the outfield, having played one game in right with the Rangers in 2005.
Although Gonzo can and would play the outfield, should he? Having come off an injury and not being the most fleet of foot, Gonzalez could cost the team a win and, perhaps, weeks of missed time if injured.
Should Adrian Gonzalez play outfield during interleague away games?survey software
