LOS ANGELES — J.D. Martinez’s bothersome ankle contributed to the Red Sox’ decision to sit Andrew Benintendi on Friday for Game 3 of the World Series. Manager Alex Cora preferred to keep Jackie Bradley Jr. in center field and Mookie Betts in right field, their normal spots.
Benintendi has made a pair of spectacular catches lately, including a leaping grab in front of the Green Monster in Game 2, but Bradley and Betts remain the team’s two best defenders.
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With Martinez in left field and his range perhaps more limited than normal, Cora didn’t want to ask someone other than Bradley to play center. Dodger Stadium has a cookie-cutter design and a spacious outfield.
“With the other two defenders in this ballpark, it’s good for us,” Cora said. “You just look at Benny off the bench against lefties or righties, and he can run too, and he can play defense.”
Martinez, who was hurt on the bases at Fenway Park in Game 1, did drills on Thursday’s off-day and prior to tonight's game as well.
“He looked like he got better throughout the game,” Cora said of Game 2. “Yesterday he showed up and he was moving well. Today he did a few drills. They hit it in the air, we’ll put him in the spot and make some plays.”
Of course, the Sox have to find a spot for Martinez other than designated hitter because of the National League rules that are in play.
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“It sucks that one of the boys is not playing,” Cora said. “Those are the rules and we’re not complaining about it.”
Boston Red Sox
Cora said that Martinez likely wouldn't be playing right now if this were a regular season game, not because the injury is too severe, but because the Sox wouldn't want to push him needlessly. But this time of year is naturally different.
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