Matsuzaka is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Friday and pitching coach John Farrell said that he will throw two innings in a minor league game Sunday if all goes well.
"That would be the ideal scenario, but still we have the right to adjust by a day if so needed," Farrell said.
The 29-year-old right hander threw pitches to Aaron Bates, Tug Hulett and Angel Sanchez in the session. He worked rather quickly and showed no ill effects of the neck pain which has canceled multiple throwing sessions this spring.
"I was a little bit worried about [how I would feel] going into it but as it turns out everything's fine," Matsuzaka said through his interpreter Masa Hoshino.
Matsuzaka added that he had good life on his fastball and good break and command on breaking balls, but that there is work to be done. The one aspect to his game he needs to usher in is throwing inside to hitters. He stayed away from that in facing batters for the first time.
Farrell indicated that Matsuzaka has been aiming for repetition in his delivery.
"The last two bullpen sessions there's been an emphasis on Daisuke's part to repeat his arm slot, which he did today and which he's done the last couple of bullpen sessions, indicating improved arm strength," Farrell said.
There were no restrictions during Wednesday's session and Matsuzaka reported no pain whatsoever. He has admitted to being stressed with all the setbacks but feels he is finally on the right track.
"Really the only way to go from here is forward so I'm not going to spend much time looking over my shoulder," he said. "I think gradually I feel that I can get over these frustrations as we move forward."
Thursday is an off day for the Sox and the staff will take a look at Matsuzaka when he arrives Friday.
