Entering spring training and the 2008 season, the number one question lingering from the previous campaign dealt with centerfield. Fans asked if a platoon situation would be in order, a system where Crisp and Ellsbury split playing time with Crisp facing more left-handers and Ellsbury focusing on the right-handers. Would Ellsbury be sent down to triple-A to fine tune his craft while Crisp is shown off for possible trade suitors, or which team became the most desperate after an early-season injury to an outfielder? Would Crisp be relegated to the bench as the clear inferior hitter, finishing in second to the up-and-coming rookie that displayed potential with the bat and the glove?
Judging from the first week of the regular season, it appears Francona is leaning towards the first
