Jones, who battled left hip tightness the previous two days, pinch hit for Mickey Gasper against a left-hander in the eighth inning. The former has been remarkably productive in a part-time role since joining Boston, going 11-for-23 with four doubles, two home runs, six RBI, three steals and eight runs scored over 15 contests.

Jones had been penciled in as the Red Sox's designated hitter and leadoff hitter for the series opener, but he was removed from the lineup since his hip was preventing him from turning his swing "fully loose," according to Tracy. The skipper downplayed any major concern about the injury, and the Red Sox are expecting Jones to be available the next time they face a left-handed starting pitcher.