Rangers LF Murphy misses start with stomach virus

Texas Rangers left fielder David Murphy is out with a stomach virus.

Murphy likely would have been back in the starting lineup Saturday night against Boston with the Rangers facing a right-handed pitcher for first time in five games.

Leonys Martin, who primarily splits center field with Craig Gentry, started in left field for the second time in his career. Gentry started in center.

The left-handed Murphy hasn't started since last Sunday at Minnesota, and is 1-for-18 his last eight games. He has a career average of .438 (7 of 16) against Red Sox right-hander John Lackey, the starter Saturday night.

Rangers manager Ron Washington says Murphy was feeling fine Friday, but caught the virus from his wife and children.