It may seem odd that the Rays played Monday and had Tuesday off, but it is actually something of a baseball tradition. The idea is that since opening day - especially in a town such as Baltimore - is such a big deal, that they build in a "protection day" in case the game is rained out - or snowed out. That way, the game would be rescheduled for the next day all the fans who bought opening day tickets would get to go, rather than the normal rain out procedure, which is to get a raincheck for a future date.

By early evening, it appeared that infielder Luis Ordaz was headed to the disabled list due to a bruised left knee and would be replaced Wednesday by infielder/outfielder Russell Branyan, who had been in the running for the final roster spot but was instead send to Triple-A.

Starting shortstop Julio Lugo, who left Monday's opener due to an abdominal strain, received treatment and Tuesday and the Rays probably won't know until close to game time Wednesday whether he can play. With temperatures forecast to be in the 40s, Lugo may be better off sitting out, which would mean Nick Green would likely start at short.