FORT MYERS, Fla. - Julio Lugo was in the original lineup posted yesterday morning, but after batting practice and infield drills he was scratched and replaced by Alex Cora.

Lugo had been battling a stiff back the last few days and hasn’t played since Sunday.

Coco Crisp (groin strain) also remained sidelined.

* “I don’t think this is something that would keep him from playing during the year,” said Francona. “But wanting him to play doesn’t make a lot of sense.”

-SEAN McADAM