The Boston Red Sox have demoted Jackie Bradley, Jr. to Triple-A Pawtucket.

In a related move, Boston recalled Mookie Betts for his third stint with the club this season. Betts will take over for Bradley in center field.

Bradley has struggled all season, but the Red Sox have resisted demoting him until now. His .216 batting average is the lowest for a starting center fielder in the American League.

An excellent defender, Bradley also had an 0-for-35 drought -- the longest hitless streak in the majors this season -- and his slugging percentage (.290) is the lowest among all major leaguers with enough at-bats to qualify for the batting title.