Beckett, who threw 30 pitches, was happy to face the World Series champions’ “A’’ lineup, though it no longer includes Albert Pujols and was absent Carlos Beltran.

“Yeah, that’s a good lineup,’’ he said. “It’s nice because you kind of got a little bit. Not saying the other guys can’t hit - anybody with a bat up there can hit - but it’s nice kind of just gauging yourself, even this early on.

“If the wind’s not blowing, I think that ball that Matt Holliday hit lands in St Louis.’’

Crawford feels good

Valentine said Carl Crawford’s left wrist has been responding to rest and therapy and that he and the medical staff will meet Friday to map out a plan. “Saw Carl this morning,’’ Valentine said. “He said he felt very good. He’s not experiencing any pain.’’ … Miller was not too concerned about his left elbow. He said he felt fine and hopes to start playing catch again as soon as Friday. “Today is better than yesterday, which is better than the day before,’’ he said. “I think it’s just a little bit of inflammation.’’ Miller pitched two innings against the Twins last Sunday, then felt a little stiff when he woke up on Tuesday. “Just being a little cautious,’’ he said. “Better to take care of it now than later.’’ Valentine said Miller will throw a side session soon before getting into another game.

Silva on hold