Alex Cora Had Funny Reason For This Red Sox Lineup Tweak On Patriots’ Day

BOSTON — Rob Refsynder is back in the Red Sox lineup Monday, his involvement bookending a four-game series against the White Sox.

Refsnyder’s .400 batting average against right-handers, his recent three-hit performance and Boston’s comfort shifting Jarren Duran from left field to center are among the reasons why.

But there’s more behind the rationale, Red Sox manager Alex Cora quipped.

“Get Ref in there,” Cora said pregame. “Ref’s got kids. He’s used to getting up early. So, throw him out there.”

The 11:10 a.m. ET start on Patriots’ Day marks the earliest game at Fenway Park this season.

Refsnyder will bat eighth and patrol the outfield, which also features Duran in center and Wilyer Abreu in right. Refsnyder will try to pick up where he left off after he went 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles in the series opener against the White Sox.