Ortiz ready to return tomorrow, Jackie's time coming to a close

David Ortiz has been rehabbing in Pawtucket -- he homered in their game today -- and is ready to return to the Red Sox tomorrow.

Ortiz says he's ready to be activated on Friday. He feels fine in terms of timing/approach and the condition of his Achilles/heels
— Alex Speier (@alexspeier) April 18, 2013

Of course, the training staff has the final say in whether Ortiz is ready, but barring a set-back we should see Big Papi in a Boston uniform this weekend.

Ortiz' return will mean the end of Jackie Bradley's time in majors...for now. Bradley has clearly looked over-matched, although he deserves much credit for playing (almost) consistently strong defense, and drawing walks. Jackie is not starting tonight, but will be able to get consistent playing time at Pawtucket until either someone hits the DL, or he is crushing AAA pitching.

Mike Napoli has been knocking in plenty of runners batting cleanup, but it's time for Boston's true cleanup hitter to return and remind AL pitching why he is one of the most feared hitters in the game.


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