HOUSTON -- Xander Bogaerts was due for a day off anyway, not that the Boston Red Sox wanted it to come under these circumstances.
One day after being hit by a pitch on the right wrist, Bogaerts was too sore to start Saturday in the continuation of a three-game series against the Houston Astros. He will be available "only in an emergency and more for defense," according to manager John Farrell, who nevertheless was hopeful the shortstop will be able to play in the series finale Sunday night.
"I thought I would be able to play today, but I don't think so when I woke up today," Bogaerts said.