The Red Sox will be out to salvage some small measure of dignity as they aim for their first win in six tries against the Los Angeles Angels Thursday night. First pitch is at 10:05 p.m. EST with broadcasts on NESN and WEEI.
James Loney will supplant Cody Ross at the cleanup spot Thursday night, with the right fielder moving to fifth. While Ross has far better numbers than Loney on the season, Ross is facing his worst scenario: away from the cozy confines of Fenway Park, up against a right-handed pitcher. Thus, Loney at first, Ross in right.
The ever-rotating DH spot will be filled by Jarrod Saltalamacchia tonight, as Ryan Lavarnway gets the start behind the plate. So long as Lavarnway doesn't have to leave the game for any reason, that's fine. Otherwise? It could be bad news for the Sox.
Boston Red Sox (62-69)
- Scott Podsednik, LF
- Dustin Pedroia, 2B
- Jacoby Ellsbury, CF
- James Loney, 1B
- Cody Ross, RF
- Jarrod Saltalamacchia, DH
- Ryan Lavarnway, C
- Mike Aviles, SS
- Pedro Ciriaco, 3B
Los Angeles Angels (68-62)
- Mike Trout, CF
- Torii Hunter, RF
- Albert Pujols, DH
- Mark Trumbo, 1B
- Howard Kendrick, 2B
- Erick Aybar, SS
- Maicer Izturis, 3B
- Vernon Wells, LF
- Chris Iannetta, C
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