J.D. Martinez is out of the Red Sox’ lineup for a second straight day as the veteran slugger continues to deal with back spasms.
Originally scratched from Friday’s lineup about 80 minutes before first pitch, Martinez could return to action for Sunday’s series finale against the Blue Jays or Monday’s series opener against the Guardians at Fenway Park.
“Doesn’t feel great but hopefully by tomorrow or Monday he’ll be back in the lineup,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora told reporters (including MassLive.com’s Christopher Smith) at Fenway Park on Saturday afternoon.
Martinez, who represented Boston in last Tuesday’s All-Star Game in Los Angeles, is currently batting .302/.368/.481 with 30 doubles, nine home runs, 38 RBIs, 51 runs scored, 31 walks, and 84 strikeouts over 81 games (356 plate appearances). The 34-year-old is eligible to become a free-agent at the end of the season.
In Martinez’s place, Franchy Cordero is serving as the Red Sox’ designated hitter for Saturday’s contest against the Blue Jays. Cordero is batting out of the five-hole.
(Picture of J.D. Martinez: Kathryn Riley/Getty Images)
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