BALTIMORE -- Right fielder J.D. Drew was not in the starting lineup last night for the third consecutive day because of back stiffness. Drew was slated to try a round of batting practice yesterday, and manager Terry Francona said he was available to play last night if needed.

“I think he’s doing better, but he hasn’t done anything baseball-wise,” said Francona.

With the club’s off-day today, Francona thinks Drew will be able to start tomorrow night in Toronto.

-JOE McDONALD