Sizemore Named Red Sox' Opening Day Center Fielder
BOSTON (CBS) -- It's official: Grady Sizemore will be the Boston Red Sox' opening day center fielder.
Manager John Farrell made the announcement Friday morning ahead of Boston's spring game against the Minnesota Twins.
Roster update from Farrell: Grady will be our center fielder. Jackie will be optioned to Pawtucket. Final roster decisions later today.
— Red Sox (@RedSox) March 28, 2014
Farrell told Grady he earned starting job 10 min ago. "He's humble; He's taken this in stride & is extremely grateful for training staff."
— Red Sox (@RedSox) March 28, 2014
Sizemore has had a great spring since signing a one-year deal with the Red Sox in the off-season, hitting .333 (13-for-39) with a homer, two doubles and six runs scored in 12 games. He played in his third straight game on Thursday night, going 2-for-3 at the plate with a single, double and a walk.
The 31-year-old Sizemore, who has missed the last two-plus years due to various injuries, beat out rookie Jackie Bradley Jr. for the starting spot in center. Bradley hit just .158 in 19 games this spring, striking out 17 times. Bradley Jr. will start the season in Triple-A Pawtucket, Farrell announced.
Farrell said on Thursday that Sizemore will not bat leadoff for Boston, and will likely hit in the middle of the lineup.
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