Manuel finalist for Royals’ job

AROUND THE HORN

Former Chicago White Sox manager Jerry Manuel is one of four finalists for the Kansas City Royals’ vacancy, sources said, and will interview for the job Friday.

Manuel, the first-base coach for the New York Mets, compiled a 500-471 record managing the Sox from 1998 to 2003, earning American League Manager of the Year honors in 2000 when he led the Sox to the Central Division title.

Royals general manager Allard Baird said he hopes to make an announcement sometime next week. Two of the other candidates for the job, according to the Kansas City Star, are former big-league managers Art Howe and Terry Collins.

Rays score 10 in first

Carl Crawford tripled and homered during the Tampa Bay Devil Rays’ 10-run first inning against the Oakland Athletics on Wednesday night.

The first eight hitters reached base against Oakland starter Joe Blanton, who was pulled after recording his only out one batter later.

Millwood out with injury

Cleveland starter Kevin Millwood left the game against Minnesota in the fifth inning with a strained right groin.

The Indians said he will be re-examined today.

“Toronto third baseman Corey Koskie had surgery to repair a broken right thumb and ligament damage sustained in a game last week.

Koskie is expected to miss four to six weeks.

“Baltimore catcher Javy Lopez was placed on the 15-day disabled list and is expected to miss at least six weeks because of a broken bone in his right hand.

“Roger Clemens was sore a day after a sore groin forced him out after five innings.

Clemens told a Houston team spokesman there was no update on his condition other than that he was sore.

Clemens’ next start is Monday at home against the Cincinnati Reds.

“It’s more than a mild strain, but I know my body and I didn’t tear it,” Clemens said Tuesday.