Ichiro Suzuki in center

TORONTO - For the first time since 2008, Ichiro Suzuki, predominantly a rightfielder in his career, played centerfield. He started there Friday for Curtis Granderson, who was given the day off.

“It all depends on what the team needs,” Ichiro said before smiling. “If they said, ‘Will you play catcher?’ I’d have to say no.”

...Alex Rodriguez (left metacarpal fracture) continues to progress in his rehab, taking 25 to 30 swings during a tee-and-toss session Friday ... Ivan Nova, who has allowed 16 runs and 21 hits in 101/3 innings in his last two starts and starts Saturday afternoon, said he’s worked the last four days on getting his slider back. “It’s my strikeout pitch,” he said.