Bobby Valentine Remains Confident in Adrian Gonzalez’ Abilities in Outfield as David Ortiz Starts at First Base

PHILADELPHIA — Adrian Gonzalez is making his 2012 debut in the outfield.

Gonzalez, a first baseman by nature, is starting in right field Saturday to give designated hitter David Ortiz a spot in the lineup at first base.

It's an unorthodox swap, but manager Bobby Valentine isn't worried about his star fielder.

"[Gonzalez] says he can do it, and I watched him chase fly balls out there, and he's done it in the past," Valentine said. "I'm confident that if it's something he can get to, he'll catch it."

With Cody Ross limping hard after fouling a ball off his foot on Friday, the Red Sox are short on depth in the outfield.

Before this season, Gonzalez had only played the outfield three times in his career — once with the Rangers and twice for the Sox last year.

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