Update: Lowell Removed From Red Sox's Roster

Goodbye, Mike Lowell. The Red Sox de-activated their veteran third baseman about an hour before the start of tonight's Game 4 of the ALDS, replacing him with infielder Gil Velazquez.

In the short-term, the move gives the Red Sox a versatile utility man who can be used as a defensive replacement late in games. But in the longer view, it means Lowell -- who has been bothered by a hip injury -- is ineligible for the ALCS, should the Red Sox advance. He would still be eligible for the World Series.