Boston Red Sox slugger David Ortiz is set to start at first base Saturday for the first time in almost a year, manager John Farrell announced before Friday’s series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
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The Red Sox, who beat Seattle in 11 innings on Thursday to earn a split of the four-game series, lead the majors in several offensive categories, including runs (584), hits (1,077), batting average (.285), RBIs (558), on-base percentage (.351) and slugging percentage (.469). Based on his road record (5-4, 2.37 ERA) this year, he’s in line for a solid performance tonight versus the Dodgers.
The Red Sox have been very outspoken about Ortiz’ lack of availability to play the position this season and this marks a dramatic shift in policy.
Ramirez wasn’t placed on the.list, but he didn’t start on Wednesday or Thursday against the Mariners. Ortiz was hitting.311 with 25 home runs and 87 RBIs. The Dodgers will honor Ortiz, who is retiring at season’s end, before Friday’s game.
Boston comes to town leading MLB in runs per game (5.46) and wRC+ (116), the latter adjusted for park and league. The Dodgers are 7-3 in their last 10 during game 1 of a series and 6-2 in Kazmirs last 8 home starts. He allowed three runs and 10 hits in five innings against the Los Angeles Angels in his last turn to conclude July with a 6.23 ERA in six starts.
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Ramirez hurt his wrist after Tuesday night’s 5-4 loss in Seattle when he reportedly slipped and fell on the dugout steps on the way back to the Red Sox clubhouse, jamming his wrist as he attempted to break his fall.
