Three days ago, all looked well for Carl Crawford, as he went 9-for-24 in his first six games off the disabled list. All that changed — and quickly — after a miserable 1-for-11 showing in two games against Kansas City.
Crawford will sit for the second straight day, with Drew Sutton getting the start in left field Wednesday afternoon as the Sox conclude their four-game series with the Royals.
The top five of the lineup returns to its normal order for Boston, while right fielder Josh Reddick moves up to No. 6. The captain, Jason Varitek, will get the start at catcher and bat eighth.
Josh Beckett, meanwhile, will bring his 2.07 ERA into the afternoon affair. The right-hander is looking for win No. 10 on the season.
Below are the lineups for both teams.
Red Sox
Jacoby Ellsbury, CF
Dustin Pedroia, 2B
Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
Kevin Youkilis, 3B
David Ortiz, DH
Josh Reddick, RF
Drew Sutton, LF
Jason Varitek, C
Yamaico Navarro, SS
Royals
Alex Gordon, LF
Mitch Maier, CF
Billy Butler, DH
Eric Hosmer, 1B
Jeff Francoeur, RF
Mike Moustakas, 3B
Matt Treanor, C
Chris Getz, 2B
Alcides Escobar, SS
