If the Red Sox’ West Coast games against the Dodgers are a measuring stick, then Friday night revealed some problems for Boston. Sure, the Dodgers play weaker competition in the NL West, but entering play Saturday, they still have a better record than the Sox.
On Friday night, July trade acquisition Ricky Nolasco shut down the Red Sox, and John Lackey again emerged a tough luck 2-0 loser. So, heading into Saturday afternoon, there are a few changes in the Boston lineup.
After playing three of the first four games on the Red Sox’ West Coast swing at first base, David Ortiz gets the afternoon off. That means Mile Napoli returns to the lineup, and Jonny Gomes joins him, replacing Daniel Nava. David Ross also gets the start over Jarrod Saltalamacchia.
The Dodgers have an interesting look with Yasiel Puig in the leadoff spot, but with Hyun-jin Ryu on the mound, the Red Sox again face a daunting task in terms of scoring runs. They counter with Jon Lester.
Check out the lineups for both teams, below.
Boston Red Sox (75-55)
Jacoby Ellsbury, CF
Shane Victorino, RF
Dustin Pedroia, 2B
Mike Napoli, 1B
Jonny Gomes, LF
Stephen Drew, SS
Will Middlebrooks, 3B
David Ross, C
Jon Lester, LHP
Los Angeles Dodgers (76-52)
Yasiel Puig, RF
Mark Ellis, 2B
Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
Hanley Ramirez, SS
A.J. Ellis, C
Andre Ethier, CF
Juan Uribe, 3B
Jerry Hairston Jr., LF
Hyun-jin Ryu, LHP
