Here are a few highlights from Sox manager Terry Francona's pregame chat with the media Saturday afternoon at Fenway.
On Mike Lowell: The Sox are "hoping to activate Lowell by Friday," said Francona, who called that the "best-case scenario." According to Francona, the third baseman had another good day Friday, and he will hit again before Saturday night's game against the Royals. "Then, we'll work him on Sunday and send him on his way," Francona said.
On post-All Star Game plans with the pitching staff: Francona said they were not going to lay out post All-Star pitching plans yet. Instead, the team will wait until after game to firm things up. Francona indicated that the team had had conversations already with pitchers.
On John Smoltz: The Sox are "really pleased with his stuff so far" said the skipper, but cautioned, "We have to be patient."