Extra bases

• Rays president Matt Silverman and Balfour will be special guests on Thursday's edition of the Countdown to Opening Day radio show on WDAE 620 AM and other stations on the Rays Radio Network. The show will take place at Hooters in Port Charlotte from 7-8 p.m. ET, and hosted by Rays radio broadcasters Dave Wills, Andy Freed and Neil Solondz.

• So far, 62 of 64 players invited to camp have reported. Right-hander Juan Carlos Oviedo and infielder Wilson Betemit are still dealing with visa issues.

• Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. will attend the Rays-Pirates game at Charlotte Sports Park on March 13 to sign his newest book, "Squeeze Play," that has been described as a middle grade novel. The signing will begin shortly after the gates open at 11 a.m.

• On March 16 before the Rays host the Red Sox at Charlotte Sports Park, the Rays will once again shave their heads to raise funds and awareness for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation. This will be the third straight year the team has participated. For more information visit pcfcutforacure.org.