BOSTON — It's not the time of year for excuses. But if the Red Sox really wanted to make one, it would not be hard.
David Ortiz's right heel bursitis popped up just before what can be considered the worst offensive series at home in franchise history. That's truly saying something when you consider the offenses this team has possessed.
With Ortiz in a walking boot and hoping for a speedy return, Boston managed exactly three hits in three straight games in dropping two of three to the Tampa Bay Rays. It is the first time the Red Sox have been limited to three hits or less in three straight home games, and it is the first time it has happened to the team since 1974 (at Baltimore).
For Big Papi, it's been tough to watch.
"It's not a good feeling when you see your teammates struggling and you're not in the lineup," Ortiz said.
The All-Star designated hitter began to feel pain in his heel during the recent six-game road trip. That was also a time when he was carrying the club; Ortiz hit .500 (11-for-22) with three home runs and seven RBIs on the trip.
While the rest of the crew hopes to absorb the loss, they cannot ignore the timing of this sudden drought.
"He's a huge bat in our lineup," Dustin Pedroia said. "That's one of the reasons this offense is so good. We're looking forward to getting him back."
That return could occur on the upcoming eight-game road trip. Until then, the void will be felt, even if it is not directly reflected on the scoreboard.
"We've been hitting so well," Ortiz said. "It's frustrating. Everyone on this ballclub is a big part. When anybody is out of the lineup, you can feel it."
Whether directly related or not, the Sox certainly felt it against Tampa Bay.
