May 26, 2009 -- The Red Sox have finally dropped David Ortiz to sixth in the batting order, with J.D. Drew moving up to the struggling Ortiz's familiar third spot.
The slump-ridden designated hitter entered Tuesday's game at Minnesota with a .195 batting average and only one home run and 18 RBIs. Red Sox manager Terry Francona hopes Ortiz can be comfortable lower in the order and avoid the pressure of hitting third. Francona says the change isn't permanent and isn't punishment.
Francona waited to drop down Ortiz until the Red Sox were on the road.
When asked by a reporter in the locker room if he was going to talk to the media, Ortiz replied, "After I go deep tonight." -- The Red Sox have finally dropped David Ortiz to sixth in the batting order, with J.D. Drew moving up to the struggling Ortiz's familiar third spot.
The slump-ridden designated hitter entered Tuesday's game at Minnesota with a .195 batting average and only one home run and 18 RBIs. Red Sox manager Terry Francona hopes Ortiz can be comfortable lower in the order and avoid the pressure of hitting third. Francona says the change isn't permanent and isn't punishment.
Francona waited to drop down Ortiz until the Red Sox were on the road.
When asked by a reporter in the locker room if he was going to talk to the media, Ortiz replied, "After I go deep tonight." | 
