After dropping four straight games, the Boston Red Sox look to avoid a series sweep as they take on the Pittsburgh Pirates in the final game of their three-game weekend series. Because of their loss yesterday, the Red Sox now sit in second place behind the New York Yankees, half a game out of reclaiming first place.
Looking to avoid a sweep, the Red Sox will turn to left hander Andrew Miller, who will be making his second start of the season. In his last start against the Padres, Miller turned in five and two third inning, giving up three earned runs on seven hits while walking three and striking out six. In his career, Miller is 1-1 with a 5.56 ERA against the Pirates,
Looking for a sweep, the Pirates will send out right hander James McDonald, who will be looking for win number six on the season. In his last start against the Orioles, McDonald lasted four and two thirds innings, giving up three earned runs on seven hits while walking four and striking out three. McDonald has never faced the Red Sox before.
Because of the right handed McDonald on the mound, the Red Sox lineup will closely resemble Yesterday's. J.D. Drew and Josh Reddick will be playing right and left field, respectively. Terry Francona has decided to bench David Ortiz once again, so Adrian Gonzalez will be in a first base. Jarrod Saltalamacchia will catch Miller today, batting sixth. Here is the full lineup:
1. Jacoby Ellsbury, CF
2. Dustin Pedroia, 2B
3. Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
4. Kevin Youkilis, 3B
5. J.D. Drew, RF
6. Jarrod Saltalamacchia, C
7. Josh Reddick, LF
8. Marco Scutaro, SS
9. Andrew Miller, SP
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C'mon Sox!