John Lackey on Road to Recovery After Tommy John Surgery, Throws Live Batting Practice Saturday (Video)

by NESN Staff on Sat, Sep 8, 2012 at 8:21PM

John Lackey threw his first live batting-practice session since undergoing Tommy John surgery in the offseason on Saturday.

Lackey threw 15 pitches to Daniel Nava and Ivan De Jesus and his performance was encouraging. A group of Red Sox gathered to watch Lackey's session, including fellow starters Jon Lester and Clay Buchholz. After watching Lackey work, Lester said "He looked really good."

On Friday, manager Bobby Valentine said there was a possibility Lackey could pitch before the end of this season, but the big right-hander quickly put that rumor to bed.

"No, I'm not going to push it that hard," said Lackey. "My doctor does not want me to pitch this year."

Whether Lackey pitches this season or not, his performance Saturday has many looking forward to seeing him pitch in 2013.

Peter Gammons was among the group watching Lackey throw. To hear his thoughts on Lackey's outing, check out the video above.