Wakefield Expects to Make Scheduled Start on Monday

Now that Daisuke Matsuzaka seems to have returned to form — yes, one start is a small sample size, but it is a relief nonetheless — Tim Wakefield's situation becomes a little less urgent as Boston heads toward the playoffs.

But still, it's always encouraging to hear good news about the All-Star's recovery from a lower back strain that has hampered him since July. According to Boston.com, Wakefield threw a side session of 40 pitches on Friday and was pleased with the outcome. When asked if he would be able to take the mound against Kansas City on Monday, he said, "In my mind, yes."

Wakefield, who raced out to a stellar 11-3 record prior to the All-Star break, has been battling a fragmented disk in his back and has had three cortisone shots to ease the pain. He has made two starts in the second half, throwing 13 innings and allowing five runs on 12 hits. Overall, Wakefield, 43, is 11-4 with a 4.22 ERA.