October 4, 2008 Lowell out for Game 2, Cora starts at shortstop Play video

(NECN) - Red Sox manager Terry Francona says that it was a tough decision, but has decided to sit Mike Lowell for Game Two of the divisional series against the Angels. Also Alex Cora will get the start at shortstop over rookie Jed Lowrie. Francona said that he had a feeling going into the series that Cora would get the start in the game against Ervin Santana. Cora has three at bats against Santana, with a .667 batting average and a .750 on base percentage.

In regards to Mike Lowell, Francona said its obvious he's hurting, but he did not get worse, and wants to play. He says that although he had a hard time making the decision, it was something he had to do.

1. Jacoby Ellsbury, CF 2. Dustin Pedroia, 2B 3. David Ortiz, DH 4. Kevin Youkilis, 3B 5. J.D. Drew, RF 6. Jason Bay, LF 7. Mark Kotsay, 1B 8. Jason Varitek, C 9. Alex Cora, SS