Not on fire? Its hard to argue against a .417 batting average with 3 homers and 8 rbi's (even though Youkilis is hitting .422 with 4 homers and 10 rbi's). Big Papi has a longer proven history of being a clutch hitter in big series (than does Youkilis) and I think thats why Francona may go with Ortiz at first base.

FWIW - I'm not sure that I'd do the same if I was managing the team, but then again, the Sox would have finished behind Tampa if I was managing.