41.   The two-time defending AL batting champion hopes to be ready for opening day.

42.   The two-time defending AL batting champion was to start Sunday against the Chicago White Sox, the Red Sox said.

43.   The two-time defending AL batting champion was to start today against the Chicago White Sox.

44.   Walker, the two-time defending NL batting champion, missed his second straight game because of a strained right calf.

45.   Which is fine with NL batting champion Tony Gwynn.

46.   Williams, the AL batting champion, hit a chopper in front of the mound that Brown barehanded.

47.   Matt Williams, among the NL leaders at batting in runs, and six-time NL batting champion Tony Gwynn were also absent with injuries.