Bradley resurfaces in Bronx, starts in center

NEW YORK -- Jackie Bradley Jr. resurfaced in the Red Sox's clubhouse on Saturday morning and was immediately inserted into the starting lineup to help fill the void for the injured Jacoby Ellsbury.

Back in Spring Training, Bradley was a big storyline. But he faded a bit after an early slump with the Red Sox before having a solid season at Triple-A Pawtucket.

"I feel good," said Bradley, who is ranked Boston's No. 2 prospect. "My body's strong. It's holding up great. I've been fortunate enough to not have to deal with any injuries, so to speak. It feels good."

In 80 games at Pawtucket, Bradley hit .275 with 10 homers and 35 RBIs while compiling an .842 OPS.

"Being the type of person I am, I constantly want to get better and look for things that you can get better in and focus on those things and continue to get better," said Bradley.

Though Bradley was in the midst of a playoff series with Pawtucket, he was more excited to join the Red Sox in the middle of a pennant race.

"I sure hope it's beneficial," said Bradley. "I just take it like any other game. You can't put any magnification on it. ... It's the same game whether it's the playoffs or the regular season. Go out there and give it your all and do your best."