Manager Terry Francona was understandably reluctant when he removed Jacoby Ellsbury from the leadoff spot in Boston's lineup on July 24 -- and the 24-year-old may be making a triumphant return to Boston's pole position sooner rather than later. 

--OF Brian Giles was claimed on waivers by the Red Sox, and the team has 48 hours from Thursday morning to work out a compensation trade agreement with the San Diego Padres. 

MEDICAL WATCH: 1B Kevin Youkilis (sore right hand) left the Aug. 

The last time the Boston Red Sox visited Chicago, one of the most lopsided series in AL history served as a springboard for the Red Sox en route to last year's World Series title. 

Jacoby Ellsbury hit a three-run homer and Tim Wakefield's baffling knuckleball shut down Kansas City on four hits through six innings, helping the Boston Red Sox to an 8-2 victory over the Royals on Wednesday night. 

Jacoby Ellsbury hit a three-run homer and Tim Wakefield's baffling knuckleball shut down Kansas City on four hits through six innings, helping the Boston Red Sox to an 8-2 victory over the Royals on Wednesday night. 

Tim Wakefield's knuckleball must be better than Trey Hillman's. 

Tim Wakefield's knuckleball must be better than Trey Hillman's. 

Tim Wakefield's knuckleball must be better than Trey Hillman's. 

Red Sox first baseman Kevin Youkilis was hit in the wrist by a pitch in the first inning against Kansas City on Wednesday night and left the game after getting doubled off first base. 

The trade deadline has passed, but teams can still go the waiver route. 

The trade deadline has passed, but teams can still go the waiver route. 

The Rays didn't make a trade, but they've got a plan. 

MEDICAL WATCH: 3B Mike Lowell (right hip flexor strain) left the Aug. 

Make no mistake about it.