Why Red Sox Won't Start One of Their Hottest Hitters Friday, Saturday
Manager Alex Cora says Bobby Dalbec will not start as the designated hitter against the Rays on Friday or Saturday because he wants Jarren Duran to start all three games.
Dalbec has been one of the Red Sox's hottest hitters in August.
The 27-year-old is batting .429 (18-for-42) with six doubles, three home runs and nine RBIs in August.
But Cora said he wants to give Duran, a 25-year-old rookie, a chance to play every day against the Rays.
"I want to give Jarren a chance to get his feet wet against a good team," Cora said. "He's been playing well, and I think he deserves a chance to start."
- Duran is batting .306 (11-for-36) with two doubles, two triples and five RBIs in August.
- He has also stolen three bases and scored six runs.
- Cora said he believes Duran can be a valuable player for the Red Sox in the future.
"He's got a lot of tools," Cora said. "He can run, he can hit, he can field. I think he has a chance to be a really good player."
Dalbec will likely still see some action against the Rays as a pinch-hitter or late-inning replacement.
But Cora said he wants to make sure Duran gets the majority of the playing time this weekend.
"I think it's important for him to get a chance to play against a good team," Cora said. "I think he can handle it."
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