Boston Red Sox reliever Craig Breslow could return later this week.
Breslow, who is beginning the 2014 season on the disabled list, told reporters Monday in Baltimore that he’s “shooting for” a Saturday return. Breslow was placed on the DL with a mild shoulder strain as the Red Sox continue to bring the left-hander along slowly after last season’s heavy workload.
“I think at this point, it will become a baseball decision, and it will be up to (manager) John (Farrell) and (general manager) Ben (Cherington) to make (the call when he’s activated),” Breslow said. “I told them going into this that I felt like I could be ready (for Opening Day). But I understand the luxury of being prudent. We have plenty of depth and it gives me the opportunity to come around at exactly the pace that my body is telling me, as opposed to what a calendar indicates.”
Breslow also began last season on the DL because of a shoulder issue. The 33-year-old returned in May and became a stalwart at the back end of Boston’s bullpen. Breslow figures to be a big part of the Red Sox’s ‘pen again this season, but the club is remaining cautious out of the gate.
Breslow, who pitched two innings in a minor league intrasquad game Sunday in Fort Myers, is expected to pitch in back-to-back games with Triple-A Pawtucket on Thursday and Friday. Brandon Workman likely will be optioned to Triple-A when Breslow is ready to return.
