Boston Red Sox Stars Jarren Duran and Justin Turner will be absent from the lineup in their highly anticipated matchup against the Houston Astros. As the teams prepare to face off in a crucial four-game series at Minute Maid Park, both Duran and Turner will be sidelined.
In a recent victory over the New York Yankees, Duran sustained a left toe contusion, forcing him to leave the game prematurely. However, the injury does not appear to be serious, and he is expected to return to action soon. Fortunately for the Red Sox, X-rays were not necessary for Duran, indicating that his absence from the lineup is likely a precautionary measure.
Meanwhile, 38-year-old veteran Justin Turner has been battling through a bone bruise in his left heel. After filling in at first base for the injured Triston Casas in consecutive games, it seems sensible to grant Turner a day off to rest and recover. Trevor Story will take on the designated hitter role in Turner’s absence.
With these key players missing, Triston Casas, who was sidelined due to a tooth infection over the weekend, has returned to the lineup and will be positioned at first base. Casas, a valuable asset for the Red Sox, will add depth and power to the batting order as he takes his place in the cleanup spot.
The pitching matchup for the series opener will feature left-handed James Paxton on the mound for the Red Sox, facing off against the Astros’ right-handed Cristian Javier. Boston’s position players have struggled against Javier in the past, with a combined batting average of just .167. However, standout Rafael Devers has managed to find success, going 2-for-8 against him with a home run and a double. Devers will bat second in the lineup, followed by Masataka Yoshida in the three-hole.
As the Boston Red Sox and Houston Astros get ready to compete in what promises to be an exciting series, the absence of Jarren Duran and Justin Turner will provide an opportunity for other players to step up and make their mark. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how the Red Sox compensate for the missing stars and if they can secure a victory against a formidable Astros team. The first pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. Eastern time, and baseball enthusiasts will be glued to their screens to witness this important clash between two talented teams.
