Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora has spent months trying to perfect his lineup for games against left-handed starting pitchers — and presented a new wrinkle on Tuesday .

Jarren Duran is batting lower than he has all season…

Duran, who has struggled mightily against left-handed pitchers this season, is batting eighth in the club’s series opener against the Athletics. Duran hasn’t been placed that far down the lineup since May 12, 2024.

Romy Gonzalez returns to the leadoff spot, where he has thrived against southpaws, and will play first base. Rob Refsnyder, the club’s other specialist against lefties, will be in the cleanup spot as designated hitter. Nate Eaton will be playing right field and hitting sixth. Nick Sogard is hitting seventh, play

ing second base, and will bat from the ri

See Full Page