Ramirez scratched from Red Sox lineup; Ortiz returns

Jul 25, 2008 - 9:48 PM BOSTON (Ticker) -- Boston Red Sox outfielder Manny Ramirez will not be in the lineup Friday when the club opens a three-game series with the New York Yankees.

The contest marks the return of Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz, who has missed nearly two months with a torn tendon in his left wrist. Ortiz was activated from the 15-day disabled list Friday afternoon.

However, Boston's lineup still will not be at full strength as Ramirez is out for the second straight game with a sore right knee.

The 36-year-old Ramirez is hitting .301 with a team-best 19 home runs and 62 RBI this season.

First baseman Kevin Youkilis will take Ramirez's cleanup spot in the batting order, one place behind Ortiz, who is hitting third.

The Red Sox optioned outfielder Brandon Moss to Class AAA Pawtucket on Thursday in anticipation of Ortiz's return. The slugger is batting .252 with 13 home runs and 43 RBI this season.