WHAT'S NEW: A's trainer Larry Davis told the Oakland Tribune the "most likely" cause of the cracked ribs sustained by shortstop Bobby Crosby was one swing of a bat, maybe even in batting practice. The 2004 AL rookie of the year is on the 15-day disabled list with stress fractures to the ninth and 10th ribs of his back.
INJURIES: Pitcher Rich Harden had his regular start pushed back from Wednesday to Sunday because of a blister on his right middle finger.
STREAKS: Oakland has won its past three against the Rays and last season won four of six at Tropicana Field.
WHO'S HOT: Outfielder Nick Swisher entered Thursday night's game batting .444 (4-for-9) with two home runs and three RBIs.
WHO'S NOT: Catcher Jason Kendall was batting .100 (1-for-10) with three strikeouts.
SERIES: This is the first of nine games. The Rays trail 49-17.
KEEP IN MIND: The Rays' 17 victories over the A's and the Indians are the fewest against American League opponents.
THEY SAID IT: "I'm trying to stay upbeat, but it's difficult. You work your butt off for six months to get ready for the season and on opening day you crack a rib." - Crosby in the Oakland Tribune.
