7. The backup outfielders
In the grand scheme of things, the Red Sox clearly have bigger concerns
than Mark Kotsay and Rocco Baldelli (pictured), each of whom made contributions in the
first half -- Baldelli largely against lefthanded pitching, Kotsay against
righthanders. The fact that both men can play center field also is an
enormous luxury that few teams possess. So why does this need to be
watched? Kotsay began the year on the disabled list and has been hampered
by a calf injury of late. Baldelli went on the disabled list earlier this
season and is an ongoing health concern. Thankfully, Jacoby Ellsbury and
J.D. Drew generally have been available to play every day, but what happens
if and when that changes? And don't forget that Jonathan Van Every is out
for the year.


