PHOTOS: Salem Red Sox ready for first pitch

JOEL HAWKSLEY | The Roanoke Times

Red Sox players make their way back to the dugout after taking a team picture on media day at LewisGale Field in Salem on Wednesday.

JOEL HAWKSLEY | The Roanoke Times

Outfielder Brandon Jacobs was a little shocked to be playing for Salem again at the beginning of this season, but he says he’s healthy and has learned to pace himself better, improvements that he says will help him prove he’s ready for a permanent promotion.

JOEL HAWKSLEY | The Roanoke Times

Red Sox pitcher William Cuevas winds up to throw Wednesday during a windy practice at LewisGale Field in Salem. The starter bypassed a stint in Greenville.

JOEL HAWKSLEY | The Roanoke Times

Stadium facilities manager Matt Bird gives the roof of the third base dugout at LewisGale Field a fresh coat of paint on Wednesday. Bird interned with the Red Sox last year, and was recently hired on full time.

JOEL HAWKSLEY | The Roanoke Times

Red Sox pitcher Kyle Stroup picks out a uniform before practice at LewisGale Field in Salem on Wednesday.

JOEL HAWKSLEY | The Roanoke Times

Red Sox catcher Leonel Escobar heads out onto the field for practice on Wednesday. Salem’s season begins today.

JOEL HAWKSLEY | The Roanoke Times

Catcher Leonel Escobar throws the ball during practice in Salem on Wednesday.