The Red Sox will have Dustin Pedroia, just one day removed from aggravating his thumb injury, back in the lineup as they take on Carlos Zambrano and the Miami Marlins. First pitch is at 7:10 p.m. EST with broadcasts on NESN, the MLB Network, and WEEI.
While there were fears that Pedroia's decision to return early from his injury had resulted in the worst case scenario after he was pulled in the middle of Tuesday's game, the second baseman is back in the lineup Thursday night, batting second behind Daniel Nava as the Sox aim for the sweep.
The Red Sox will keep Adrian Gonzalez back at first base for a second straight night now that they've got viable outfield options in Cody Ross, Ryan Kalish, and Daniel Nava. Will Middlebrooks will take the start at third base while Kevin Youkilis will at least begin his night on the bench.
Boston Red Sox (35-33)
- Daniel Nava, LF
- Dustin Pedroia, 2B
- Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
- David Ortiz, DH
- Cody Ross, RF
- Jarrod Saltalamacchia, C
- Will Middlebrooks, 3B
- Ryan Kalish, CF
- Mike Aviles, SS
Miami Marlins (33-35)
- Jose Reyes, SS
- Hanley Ramirez, DH
- Giancarlo Stanton, RF
- Logan Morrison, LF
- Greg Dobbs, 3B
- Omar Infante, 2B
- Scott Cousins, CF
- Gaby Sanchez, 1B
- Brett Hayes, C
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