Bard looks to rebound as Sox take on Blue Jays
Here is the Red Sox starting line up for tonight:
Things to watch for:
1. Nick Punto, 3B 2. Jacoby Ellsbury, CF 3. Dustin Pedroia, 2B 4. David Ortiz, DH 5. Cody Ross, LF 6. Ryan Sweeney, RF 7. Mike Aviles, SS 8. Kelly Shoppach, C 9. Nate Spears, 1B SP -- Daniel Bard, RHPIn relief today the Sox have Andrew Miller, Fat Matt Albers and Michael Bowden.
Things to watch for:
- Daniel Bard looks to rebound from his rough outing last time out. A commenter brought up a great point that it is outings like the last one that are the reason Bard has been in the bullpen to begin with. Bard seemed like a foregone conclusion to be in the rotation heading in to camp but if he can't continue to make positive strides then the Sox may have to look elsewhere.
- Ryan Sweeney returns after injuring his quad. The outfield today will most likely be the opening day starting outfield with Crawford being sidelined.
- David Ortiz has been slumping of late.
- If Salty's bursitis continues to flare up then Shoppach could find himself starting at C to start the season. I'd rather have Lavarnway but my credibility flew out the window when my neighbor caught me standing in my boxers, with my hands down my pants, watching my dog take a shit this morning.
- Mike Aviles aims to continue his strong spring and to prove to the Red Sox that he can be their starting shortstop and that it's not quite Jose Iglesias time, yet.
- Michael Bowden will attempt to keep impressing as he has yet to give up a run.
- Andrew Miller most likely will stretch it out today as he starts to build up his pitch count while his bid for 5th spot continues.