Around AL East Spring Training, 3/12: Shields Named Rays’ Opening Day Starter

Every single AL East team was rained out on Friday. All of ‘em.

Blue Jays: Filed under the good news category is Joey Gathright has a very good chance of making the Opening Day roster for the Blue Jays. Oh, sorry, that should read “bad news.” ... Previewing the Blue Jays for 2010.

Orioles: Now that he’s back in the setup role for the O’s, Jim Johnson is hoping for a better season. Johnson said he over-pitched when he assumed the closer role when George Sherrill was traded. ... Camden Chat breaks down the AL East position by position, with today’s topic the DH.

Rays: James Shields was announced today as the starter for the Rays on Opening Day. Matt Garza will be the No. 2 man, while David Price or Jeff Niemann will be No. 3. ... DRaysBay is wondering where J.P. Howell is. No, seriously. Where is he?

Red Sox: Jason Bay was booed by Red Sox fans in Jupiter on Thursday. Nobody really understands why that happened, though. ... Jason Varitek and Mike Lowell have yet to play for the Red Sox this spring. Varitek will likely play Sunday while Lowell could go on Monday.

Yankees: Despite a lot of rain in Florida, Andy Pettitte was able to get in some dry work in a simulated game on Friday. Pettitte is expected to face the Phillies on Wednesday. ... The old Yankee Stadium is already crashed down. Have you noticed?