Bobby Jenks Could Return Next Week, Lackey Still On Track

Since going on the disabled list back on May 5 with bicep tendinitis, Red Sox reliever Bobby Jenks has rehabbed quite nicely and was finally able to pitch off a mound yesterday.  Jenks served as Pawtucket's starter yesterday, as he gave up only one hit through one inning of work.  He reportedly hit 94 mph on the radar gun, which is a very good sign for Jenks going forward.

"The past few bullpens I’ve been throwing, I’ve been working on it a lot," he said. "Out there today, I was able to make the adjustments quick." (via ProJo)

Jenks will make one more rehab appearance with Pawtucket on Sunday, and then is expected to make his way back to Fenway Park next week when the Red Sox welcome his former team, the Chicago White Sox to town.  

In addition to Jenks, the Red Sox also got some more encouraging news from another wounded pitcher, John Lackey.  Since being placed on the disabled list on May 11, Lackey pitched his first simulated game yesterday at Comerica Park, where he threw 40 total pitches.  Lackey on how he felt afterwards:

"I feel like I was finishing a whole lot better," said Lackey.  "I felt like I was locating my fastball pretty good today. I was working on tightening up my cutter a little bit. It's gotten a little loose on me a couple times. That was one of the main things I was working on." (via MLB.com)

Lackey will join Pawtucket on Tuesday night, where he will start a rehab game and is expected to throw about 70 pitches.  He will then make his expected return to Boston's rotation in time to face the Oakland Athletics on June 5.