http://www.sbnation.com/users/pedroiastroika Posts made by pedroiastroika on SB Nation http://www.overthemonster.com/2008/4/14/398822/what-to-do-with-big-papi pedroiastroika Mon, 14 Apr 2008 19:40:07 -0000 <p>So, with this ridiculous stretch of games coming up, when should Ortiz be back in the lineup?&nbsp; I've heard everywhere from 'keep him out for a week' to 'let him sit out one game.'&nbsp; I think that keeping him out is actually beneficial for a couple reasons.&nbsp;&nbsp; First, it gives Tito time to try and sort out the Ellsbury/Crisp situation, and have them both play.&nbsp; Obviously, I think they have to stick with Jacoby in the long run, and getting rid of Coco is inevitable.&nbsp; Also, it's still so early in the season that, if Papi is still nursing his knee, he can sit out as long as he needs to.&nbsp;</p> <p>On the other hand, it seems like it would be a much smarter (more smart?) move to get Ortiz in there and have him struggle through until&nbsp; he can get his swing back.&nbsp; I know that putting him in the lineup while he is struggling takes a spot away from someone who could do something more productive, but keeping him out won't necessarily get him out of this slump.</p> <p>Clearly I have been agonizing over what Franconer should do.&nbsp; Any Sox fan wants him in the lineup, but not if he is struggling.</p>