Well, at least the other Red Sox minor league teams are playing. Starter Devern Hansack and closer Craig Hansen looked fine in Pawtucket's 5-1 win Friday.

Hansack, who spent 2006 in Portland, before a call-up to Boston, struck out 10 in 5 2/3 innings, allowing four hits, one run and one walk. Hansen, who has relieved for Portland, but had his struggles in Boston, pitched the final two innings against Charlotte, allowing one hit, no runs and one walk, while striking out four.

Meanwhile, Daniel Bard, the 2006 first-round draft pick, made his pro debut Friday in the Advanced Class A California League. Hansen lasted only 2 2/3 innings, giving up six hits and four earned runs.

Meanwhile, the Sea Dogs worked out at the USM fieldhouse again. The most entertaining moment came when the pitchers were running laps on the indoor track. As the pitchers ran past outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, he handed out cups of water and encouragement as if it was a long distance race.

The Sea Dogs are looking into an outdoor practice in Massachusetts Sunday, in anticipation of their game being postponed.

E-mail this entry to a friend