The Tampa Bay Rays didn’t exactly come out firing on all cylinders during their Game 1 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Friday afternoon, so they’re hoping some small lineup changes may do the trick.
Ben Zobrist, who batted second in Friday’s loss has been dropped down to fifth in the order while Wil Myers has been moved up. Also moved up is first baseman James Loney, who will be hitting third, this after hitting eighth in Friday’s loss.
In addition, Desmond Jennings has been removed from the leadoff spot and replaced by David DeJesus, who did not start in Game 1. Jose Molina will get the start at catcher, as opposed to Jose Lobaton.
For Boston, there are only two small changes. Third baseman Will Middlebrooks, who batted ninth in the Red Sox’s Game 1 victory has been moved up to seventh while David Ross, who will hit ninth, takes over the catching duties for Jarrod Saltalamacchia.
Tampa Bay Rays:
1. David DeJesus (L) LF
2. Wil Myers (R) RF
3. James Loney (L) 1B
4. Evan Longoria (R) 3B
5. Ben Zobrist (S) 2B
6. Desmond Jennings (R) CF
7. Delmon Young (R) DH
8. Yunel Escobar (R) SS
9. Jose Molina (R) C
Boston Red Sox:
1. Jacoby Ellsbury (L) CF
2. Shane Victorino (S) RF
3. Dustin Pedroia (R) 2B
4. David Ortiz (L) DH
5. Mike Napoli (R) 1B
6. Jonny Gomes (R) LF
7. Will Middlebrooks (R) 3B
8. Stephen Drew (L) SS
9. David Ross (R) C