Ben Cherington apologizes to Marlins for lineup

John Farrell watched from the dugout during the seventh inning of Thursday’s game. Jeff Roberson/Associated Press

FORT MYERS, Fla. — Red Sox manager John Farrell offered no apologies for fielding a lineup of little-known players against the Marlins Thursday.

The Sun Sentinel reported that Miami officials were “outraged.” But a team spokesman said Friday that no complaint was filed to Major League Baseball.

Marlins president of baseball operations Mike Hill said Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington e-mailed an apology regarding the lineup.

Major league rules require teams to have a lineup with at least four players who are regulars or have a reasonable chance to being regulars. The Red Sox used one player who fit that definition — Jackie Bradley Jr. — in Thursday’s 0-0 game in Jupiter.

Farrell said he was aware of the Marlins being upset but was comfortable with lineup he used.

“You can’t speak to what goes on inside another team’s camp,” he said. “There are reasons why they bring a team that they do.”

Farrell said the starting infielders stayed behind to work with coach Brian Butterfield on positioning in shifts. The Red Sox also were missing several regulars with injuries.

“We had work and injuries we were contending with,” Farrell said. “I thought we played a pretty darned good game.”