Nomar Will Miss Opener. Nomar Garciaparra will probably not be ready for opening day. "I think it's more unlikely as time goes on," team doctor Bill Morgan said Saturday. "We wouldn't rule it out, though." Garciaparra took about 20 swings in the cage and about 20 grounders at short this afternoon and said, "I'm definitely going to be out a few more days. I'm still optimistic, though."

Bronson Arroyo, who pitched six strong innings yesterday, was hit on the right hip when a bat slipped out of Gabe Kapler's hands and flew into the dugout. Arroyo was not hurt. ... The Red Sox are believed to have interest in re-acquiring Damian Jackson, who is being shopped by the Colorado Rockies. ... The 25-man roster should be set by the time the team leaves for Atlanta on Thursday. ... Players are antsy for the season to start. So are the fans.