Worth noting

• Why was Jonny Gomes given the start against right-hander Jeremy Hellickson on Thursday instead of Daniel Nava? Matchups. Gomes went into the contest 3-for-7 with a homer lifetime against Hellickson. Nava was 1-for-10.

• Farrell is getting good reports from Triple-A Pawtucket on veteran relievers Jose Contreras and Brandon Lyon.

"They've been eager to get on the mound. They both had about 10 days down before they signed and reported to Pawtucket," said Farrell. "They know that there's opportunity here. When that presents itself at the Major Leagues is to be determined. Two veteran guys that are in good shape and healthy."

• Third baseman Will Middlebrooks is still seeking consistency after being optioned to Triple-A last month.

"He's had some games where he's swung the bat very well," said Farrell. "There's been some games where the inconsistencies emerge. Can't say that it's too different than what we saw here."