The Red Sox will have Dustin Pedroia in the lineup Saturday night as they try to bounce back from the latest edition of the Ben Affleck Birthday Curse against the Houston Astros.
Pedroia's status was in question after the second baseman fouled a ball off his foot late Friday night, being replaced by Kelly Johnson. Apparently all is well, or at least well enough that Pedroia won't let John Farrell keep him out of the order even in a meaningless mid-August game. Which, given Pedroia's predilection for playing through anything and everything, could mean he's completely fine, or that his foot is attached to his leg only by way of bubblegum and scotch tape.
Meanwhile, on the mound, Rubby De La Rosa will try to replicate the success he had against the Angels on a night where he actually threw more than two distinct pitches. If he does so, and if that slider plays at all, it could be kind of a big deal. Particularly if you accept Pedro's praises of his potential.
First pitch is at 7:10 p.m. ET with broadcasts on NESN and WEEI