Update: Ortiz (Achilles) is optimistic to return for Opening Day, Rob Bradford of WEEI.com reports.
Recommendation: Although Ortiz says the rehabilitation process is progressing slowly, he did not rule out the chance of any setbacks. He has been participating in batting practice and running drills but has yet to engage in higher intensive drills. The Red Sox plan to ease Ortiz back into the lineup when spring training begins in hope of preventing any further damage to his Achilles. He may have a slow start to the 2013 season.
