Entering spring training and the 2008 season, the number one question lingering from the previous campaign dealt with centerfield. Fans asked if a platoon situation would be in order, a system where Crisp and Ellsbury split playing time with Crisp facing more left-handers and Ellsbury focusing on the right-handers. Would Ellsbury be sent down to triple-A to fine tune his craft while Crisp is shown off for possible trade suitors, or which team became the most desperate after an early-season injury to an outfielder? Would Crisp be relegated to the bench as the clear inferior hitter, finishing in second to the up-and-coming rookie that displayed potential with the bat and the glove?
Judging from the first week of the regular season, it appears Francona is leaning towards the first
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
