JD Martinez returns to the Red Sox starting lineup for Friday night’s series opener against the Astros. He’s been absent for the last four games, missing the entire series in Toronto due to a mix of a scheduled day off (Monday), illness and back tightness. Martinez will hit fourth and is the designated hitter. In the home series against the Astros last weekend, Martinez went 1-for-10 with two walks, a double and an RBI.
Andrew Benintendi (.267 average/.779 OPS/five home runs) stays at the sixth slot in the order. Michael Chavis (.279/.943/10) is back at second base and will lead things off against former Red Sox pitcher Wade Miley. Steve Pearce is at first in place of Mitch Moreland and Eduardo Nunez will handle third base instead of Rafael Devers.
First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m.
Here’s the complete lineup, with Chris Sale on the bump:
Michael Chavis 2B
Mookie Betts RF
Xander Bogaerts SS
JD Martinez DH
Steve Pearce 1B
Andrew Benintendi LF
Eduardo Nunez 3B
Sandy Leon C
Jackie Bradley Jr. CF