BOSTON -- Bobby Valentine said he was told by general manager Ben Cherington to prepare as if David Ortiz (injured Achilles) won't return this season, just in case the decision is made to shut him down.
That decision, however, has yet to be made.
When asked Friday if Ortiz should even risk returning in a season that's already lost, Valentine said it's not up to him.
"It's not really my call. I mean, if he's healthy and he loves to play the game of baseball, he could always go out there and bat it around a little. I'd hate to jeopardize his career. That's for sure."