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July 4, 2007
During his pre-game chat, manager Terry Francona was asked about David Ortiz's recent difficulties at the plate -- he's hitting just 12-for-61 (.197) over his last 18 games, and his average had dropped from .338 on June 13 to .307 today.
Francona, as is his way, doesn't want to make a big deal out of it.
"David is...if not the, one of the most dangerous hitters in the game. Right now he's just going through a rough spot," Francona said. "The day you hear me (criticize) David Ortiz, I'll take a urine test. It won't happen."
Francona was asked about Ortiz's legs -- he recently told a Boston Herald reporter that he's having quadriceps troubles -- and once again the manager downplayed it, saying that the red-hot media focus in Boston means everything can get blown out of proportion.
Ortiz did miss a couple of games in late May due to sore hamstrings, apparently brought on by dehydration from illness.
"He's done a good job with his legs," Francona said. "At times he's not incorporating his legs like he should, I agree with that. But he's doing a good job of taking care of himself."
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