Lowell ready to DH

PAWTUCKET, R.I. Mike Lowell just finished batting practice and said his sprained left thumb feels fine. Now the big test: live pitching against the Syracuse Chiefs tonight.

"I'm really looking forward to seeing live pitching and getting my timing down," said Lowell, wearing No. 25. He'll bat third and DH. Lowell said he's expected to DH a full game tonight and tomorrow night in Buffalo and then play third base on Monday. After the game, however, PawSox manager Ron Johnson said Lowell would play third tomorrow and DH on Sunday.

"The thumb feels good," he said. "It feels good, but the real test will be the next time I dive."

He was holding the thumb contraption that he'll use to support the thumb for the rest of the season. Lowell commented that "I thought it would be worse." Lowell thinks he'll be able to use the contraption, which he says is thinner than one he used last season and not have it interfere with his glove hand. "I'm hesitant not to use it."

Lowell was involved in some sort of initiation before the game where PawSox players and manager Ron Johnson encircled him. Applause was heard, but Lowell, when asked about it afterward said he had been sworn to secrecy.