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Francona joined the Dale & Holley show and, as usual, brought some interesting quotes with him.
Snippets, via WEEI:
Jed Lowrie will be inserted into the starting lineup for Wednesday's afternoon game vs. the A's in Oakland. "He's going to play shortstop today," Francona stated.
He was activated along with pitcher Clay Buchholz. To make room, the Sox designated first baseman Ryan Shealy for assignment and sent Dustin Richardson to Triple-A Pawtucket.
Francona said he's happy to have them back, but he needs more than the "names" returning to the active roster. Said Francona: "We've got to get the production that comes along with that."
I've never expected much from Lowrie, and I'm not about to start now, but it's nice to have him back. Pitchers usually need a start or two to get back to form, but I Buchholz should pick up where he left off. Definitely not shedding a tear over Shealy or Dustin Richardson. We only have room for one Dustin in the Boston, son.
Tthe highlight of the interview:
"[Pedroia] actually took BP on the field yesterday with that boot on," Francona said. "He's doing everything in his power to be ready." Francona joked that Pedroia is full of energy, and now that he can't spend that energy on playing, he's driving everyone crazy. "He's like a caged animal," Francona said. "We have got to get him back in the lineup or someone is going to kill him."
Tito makes a great, albeit obvious, point that just getting healthy isn't enough. We don't have the luxury of a post-injury ramp-up period. Hit the ground running, boys.
