Worth noting

• Right-hander Daniel Bard, who has been besieged by control problems the last two seasons, hasn't pitched in a game for Double-A Portland since May 15. He continues to do side work, and manager John Farrell expressed hope that Bard will pitch in some type of game action before the season ends.

"I would hope so. I would hope even for his own mindset of once this year ends, at least having some recent activity to evaluate on his own behalf," Farrell said. "He was back throwing bullpens after getting over the abdominal strain. To what effort level, to how close to game ready, I don't have that."

• With catcher David Ross still out for at least a couple of more weeks as he battles back from his second concussion, Jarrod Saltalamacchia has been a near fixture in the starting lineup. Farrell knows he has to keep an eye on Saltalamacchia's playing time, given how much of a toll catching can take.

"I think Sunday gives us a natural break in the schedule -- day game after night game, as one," said Farrell. "[Thursday] night's [rainout], obviously being another. We know that we're in a stretch now with Monday being taken away from us from an off-day standpoint, we'll monitor that close. I think of late, he's still held some very good durability.

"Physically he's like most catchers at this time of the year. He's banged up a little bit. He's done a very good job of handling our staff and leading guys through a given game plan, so that's not to say we won't pick spots. Three right-handers going this series, we'd like to have the bat in there, but Sunday's game probably trumps that."

• Because of Thursday's rainout being postponed until Monday, the Red Sox will get the rare chance to face Rays ace lefty David Price twice in the span of six days. Price fired a complete-game gem against Boston on Wednesday at Fenway.

"I think the thing that stands out is that you've got familiarity," said Farrell. "He executed tremendously a couple of nights ago. We know that he's a damn good pitcher and we're looking forward to the challenge on Monday."

• Felix Doubront, who pitched well against Price on Wednesday but came up short, will draw the rematch.