Damon scratched from lineup

Outfielder Johnny Damon is unable to play tonight due to his sore left shoulder after originally being penciled into the Red Sox starting lineup, an indication that his injury may be worse than originally anticipated.

Damon, who injured his left shoulder sliding into second base last Sunday, received a cortisone injection Friday night. After taking Saturday's game off and playing in yesterday’s game as the designated hitter, he was expected to be playing center field tonight in Toronto.

Prior to the decision to rest the ailing Damon, manager Terry Francona was asked if the center fielder was feeling better today. He replied “I think what it is is he’s tough, that’s probably a better way to put it.” As for Damon’s ability to throw, “I really don’t have concerns,” added Francona. “Johnny will do best he can. If his arm is a little iffy, that’s just the way it is.”

Damon was seen playing catch in the Rogers Centre outfield for the first time since he threw from the field Friday night in New York. “I know I’ve got to play, keep battling,” Damon said prior to being taken out of the lineup. “I’m not sure when it’s going to feel good.”

Rehabbing Sox pitcher Wade Miller, who worked 2 2/3 innings for Double-A Portland on Sunday against Trenton, will pitch for the Sea Dogs again on Friday night during their playoff game against Akron in the Eastern League finals. “He averaged about 88,” said Francona. “There were some inconsistencies.”

David Ortiz who didn’t start yesterday due to a tight back is back in the lineup tonight as the DH. Francona said his back was tight and figures to be for some time.

Tonight’s Red Sox lineup:

1. Tony Graffanino, 2B

2. Edgar Renteria, SS

3. David Ortiz, DH

4. Manny Ramirez, LF

5. Jason Varitek, C

6. Kevin Millar, 1B

7. Trot Nixon, RF

8. Bill Mueller, 3B

9. Gabe Kapler, CF