3/5 Guzman, Gray doubtful for Opening Day

The Cubs may have more openings in their bullpen than they originally thought. Angel Guzman was to undergo an MRI on his right shoulder Friday. He’s not expected to be ready Opening Day. Guzman has been slowed because of discomfort in his shoulder. Jeff Gray also has been held back because of a lingering groin strain.

“Gray, he still feels it when he throws,” Lou Piniella said Friday. “We’re being precautious with him. I thought that by now we could have him throwing off the mound. He’s a little bit away yet.”

Guzman was projected as a possible right-handed set-up option for the Cubs. He hasn’t been close to throwing off a mound. Could he be ready by Opening Day?

“Not at all,” Piniella said. “Gray is starting to get on the ‘doubtful’ list — not doubtful, let’s call it the ‘borderline’ list.”

The leading candidate for the set-up job is Esmailin Caridad but GM Jim Hendry is looking.

“We’re doing no different than we always do,” Hendry said. “If there’s [a trade] to be made, we will.”

– Carrie Muskat