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Matsuzaka on verge of returning to Red Sox -- maybe one last time

The Sports Xchange

Daisuke Matsuzaka is hoping to finish the season -- and perhaps his Boston Red Sox career -- on a positive note.

Matsuzaka allowed one hit in seven innings of a minor league rehab start Tuesday night for Triple-A Pawtucket, a sign that he might be close to rejoining the Red Sox's starting rotation. Manager Bobby Valentine has been coy when asked about his plans for the rotation this weekend, but Matsuzaka says he's ready to pitch after missing time with a strained right trapezius muscle.

"After my last start down in Pawtucket, I told Bobby and (pitching coach Randy Niemann) that I was good and I was ready," Matsuzaka said through a translator. "I haven't spoken to them yet this time around. I'll be speaking to them soon and then I think a decision will be made."

Injuries and ineffectiveness have extinguished the hype that accompanied Matsuzaka's signing before the 2007 season. Matsuzaka is in the final season of a six-year, $52 million contract, and it's doubtful the Red Sox will re-sign him, especially because he has been limited by injuries over the last two seasons.

Regardless, Matsuzaka believes he has something to prove over the season's final six weeks.

"I've really enjoyed my time in Boston and my family has also enjoyed our time here, so of course I'd like to (return)," Matsuzaka said. "It's a little early to say where I'm going to be or to be talking about that. But no matter how long I'm going to be here, I'd like to wear the Red Sox uniform with honor and play hard for the rest of season and do what I can to contribute to the team."

Matsuzaka missed the season's first two months while recovering from Tommy John elbow surgery. He had a 6.65 ERA in five starts before landing back on the disabled list July 3.

"It's definitely been stressful and frustrating at the same time to have to fight through all these injuries," Matsuzaka said. "But I think I'm finally at a good place and I'm looking forward to getting better and better every time I pitch."