Matsuzaka Activated from DL, Woodward Sent to Triple-A

The moment of truth has arrived for Daisuke Matsuzaka.

The right-hander, who has been on the disabled list since June 21, was activated from the 60-day disabled list prior to Tuesday's game against the Angels. Infielder Chris Woodward was optioned to Triple-A Pawtucket after Sunday's nightcap against Tampa Bay in order to make room on the roster.

Prior to straining his right shoulder in June, Dice-K was 1-5 with a 8.23 ERA despite leading Japan to its second straight World Baseball Classic title in March. During his rehabilitation efforts, he made four starts with the Gulf Coast League Red Sox, Single-A Salem, Double-A Portland and Triple-A Pawtucket. He went 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in 16 innings.

In parts of three seasons with Boston, Dice-K is 34-20 with a 4.11 ERA.

Woodward has appeared in eight games with the Red Sox and has gone 0-for-7 with a walk. Boston claimed him off waivers from Seattle on Aug. 7.