John Lackey Starts March Back From Tommy John Surgery, Beginning With Light Bullpen Session

BOSTON –– Since the end of last season, John Lackey has been the forgotten starter.

After being singled out for clubhouse shenanigans and then undergoing Tommy John surgery in the offseason, the Red Sox starter has stayed away from the spotlight for the majority of the 2012 season.

Despite keeping a low profile, Lackey is progressing physically.

"He's working extremely hard in his conditioning effort and in his rehabilitation effort," Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine said. "I think the projections of him pitching before the year is out –– the calendar year –– I think he's right on schedule. I don't know about the season, but he'll be pitching somewhere before the year is over."

While Lackey likely won't pitch for the Red Sox this season, he could eventually start a possible rehab assignment in the minors. And on Monday, Lackey took a significant step in his rehabilitation by throwing a light bullpen session.

"Early in the season, [the training staff] said we shoot for him pitching somewhere before the year is over and all reports are that he's either on schedule or just a little ahead of schedule," Valentine said.

In 28 starts last year, Lackey endured the worst season of his professional career, recording a career-high 6.41 ERA while posting a 12-12 record.

For those reasons, Lackey has been scrutinized after he signed a five-year, $82.5 million contract in December 2009.

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