Seven former Patriots players and one former executive -- including tight ends Russ Francis and Ben Coates, wide receivers Irving Fryar and Stanley Morgan -- are among the list of 131 players, coaches and contributors who make up the preliminary list of modern-era nominees for election to the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2010.

Other notable nominees announced Saturday include all-time leading receiver Jerry Rice and all-time leading rusher Emmitt Smith.

On the offensive side of the ball, Coates and Francis top the list of tight ends, while Fryar and Morgan are among the best of the bunch at the wide receiver spot. In addition, quarterback Rich Gannon -- who was drafted by New England but went on to achieve his greatest success in Oakland -- was also nominated.

On defense, former Patriots cornerback Ray Clayborn also received a nomination, as well as current WEEI contributor Fred Smerlas, who starred as a nose...

BALTIMORE -- Red Sox pitcher Tim Wakefield checked in with team doctors on Saturday, and was described by manager Terry Francona as being physically fine. The knuckleballer will be checked again on Sunday, and if those tests go well, the 43-year-old will make a start on Monday against the Royals in Kansas City. 
 
With Victor Martinez once again catching Jon Lester on Saturday, Francona was asked whether the catcher might also work with Josh Beckett at some point. 
 
"I don't know," said Francona. "I just don't know the answer to that."
 

Beckett has made all but three of his starts this year with Jason Varitek behind the plate.