Martinez Hopes to Return on Sunday

Boston Red Sox ace Pedro Martinez, sidelined since June 26 because of rotator cuff inflammation, threw a 70-pitch simulated game before Tuesday night’s game and is on target to start against the Texas Rangers in Arlington, Texas, on Sunday--depending on how his shoulder responds.

“I feel good enough,” Martinez said. “My arm is strong, my fastball is there and my breaking ball is good enough to get anybody out if I spot it well. The pitches I threw were not as consistent as I wanted, but I’m fine so far.”

Is he excited at the prospect of returning to the mound?

“Not at all,” he said. “It’s no fun being on the disabled list, but I’ve been through everything in this game, so there is nothing new. I’ll just take the mound and see what happens.”