Third to first

• Ventura mentioned that Konerko probably will get Saturday off, with a 12:10 p.m. CT first pitch following Friday's night game. He also said that switch-hitter Hector Gimenez would get the start at catcher with Mariners ace Felix Hernandez on the mound.

• Trayce Thompson homered for Double-A Birmingham in its 5-2 season-opening victory at Montgomery on Thursday.