Plethora of outfield options available for Red Sox

BOSTON -- Red Sox manager John Farrell came into the season knowing he'd have to mix and match his starting outfield.

He'd have to decide how often Grady Sizemore should patrol center field after being out of baseball since 2011. What Farrell didn't expect was that Shane Victorino would start the season on the 15-day disabled list with a right hamstring strain.

Victorino's absence has created more playing time for Mike Carp, No. 3 prospect Jackie Bradley Jr. and Jonny Gomes. Carp and Gomes have started two games, while Bradley has started one. Daniel Nava has started all four in right field.

"We have a number of quality players we can pick from," Farrell said. "With the things we are dealing with when it comes to Grady [Sizemore] and Shane [Victorino], we have very good depth and good young players."

Carp was penciled into left field for Friday's home opener against the Brewers, while Sizemore started in center field and Nava was in right field.

Farrell's said his decisions are based on versatility, matchups and where the team is playing.

"Nava can play in both corner outfield spots," Farrell said. "It is exciting to rotate so many good players through the lineup."