The newly crowned American League East champions are trotting out a new-look lineup the night after securing the title.
With the champagne stored away, and Jonny Gomes‘ army helmet back in the closet waiting for the next celebration, the Red Sox take on Toronto as they look to achieve their next goal: home-field advantage.
Clay Buchholz will make his third start on the mound since coming off the disabled list, and he’ll look to remain perfect on the season, seeking his 12th win as he takes on Mark Buehrle.
And he’ll do so with a different assortment of guys behind him. Will Middlebrooks will try out the other side of the diamond on Saturday night, starting at first base. Throughout his major league career, Middlebrooks has never started at the position, but he did see some action at second base earlier this season. John McDonald will man that spot, however, marking his first start since being acquired by the Red Sox on Aug. 31. McDonald will bat ninth.
After sitting out the past two games with a jammed thumb, Shane Victorino returns to the starting lineup and will bat second behind Stephen Drew who is getting his first look at the leadoff position.
Check out the complete lineups below.
Boston Red Sox (94-61)
Stephen Drew, SS
Shane Victorino, CF
David Ortiz, DH
Jonny Gomes, LF
Daniel Nava, RF
Will Middlebrooks, 1B
Xander Bogaerts, 3B
David Ross, C
John McDonald, 2B
Clay Buchholz, P
Toronto Blue Jays (70-83)
Jose Reyes, SS
Munenori Kawasaki, DH
Brett Lawrie, 3B
Adam Lind, 1B
Moises Sierra, LF
Rajai Davis, RF
Anthony Gose, CF
J.P. Arencibia, C
Ryan Goins, 2B
Mark Buehrle, P
