dailyloe.com – The Boston Red Sox have announced their starting lineup for Monday night’s series opener against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Manager Alex Cora has maintained the exact batting order used in Saturday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds. This decision comes after Boston dropped two of three games in their previous series.
Rookie outfielder Roman Anthony returns to left field and will lead off for the visiting team. He is followed by shortstop Trevor Story and designated hitter Jarren Duran in the lineup. First baseman Willson Contreras bats cleanup for the fourth consecutive game.
Right fielder Wilyer Abreu retains the fifth spot after a strong offensive performance in Cincinnati. He recorded two doubles and two home runs during the weekend series. Third baseman Caleb Durbin remains sixth despite going hitless against the Reds.
Prospect Marcelo Mayer makes his third straight start at second base, batting seventh. Catcher Carlos Narváez returns to catch starting pitcher Ranger Suarez, batting eighth. Gold Glove winner Ceddanne Rafaela is back in center field, batting ninth.
This marks Suarez’s debut start for the Red Sox after his offseason acquisition. He will face Astros right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. in the pitching matchup. Houston will be without All-Star shortstop Jeremy Peña due to a finger injury.
First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. Eastern Time at Houston’s Minute Maid Park. The game will be broadcast regionally on NESN. This begins a three-game series between the American League opponents.[]
Source: NESN
