TOKYO - Reliever Mike Timlin, who pitched in a minor-league game Wednesday, suffered a cut on his right ring finger on a comebacker that required stitches. Timlin may not be available for the two exhibition games here.

"It may not hold him back," said manager Terry Francona, "but I'd be surprised if it didn't hold him back some."

If the Sox don't activate him for the two regular-season games Tuesday and Wednesday, they will not need to place him on the disabled list. Timlin can simply be one of the inactives, thanks to the special rules provided for the Sox and A's for the series.

Francona said outfielder Coco Crisp, who missed most of spring training because of a slight groin strain, is available, but probably will be used somewhat sparingly here.

"He's probably rusty," said Francona, "but we'll probably have him active (for the two regular-season games Tuesday and Wednesday)."