Matsuzaka planning on early return

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Addressing the media outside the players' clubhouse at JetBlue Park, Daisuke Matsuzaka said that he does have a date in mind to return from Tommy John surgery, but chose not to divulge it. He did reveal, however, that return date might be closer than the predicted June or July activation.

"The trainers have mentioned an approximate date where they expect me to make a return, but having said that I want to come back at 100 percent and I don't want to rush things and I want to make sure my body is right when I come back," he said. "But I also would like to come back as early as possible."

When asked what the date was, Matsuzaka responded through translator Jeff Cutler, "I don't want to say, but it's probably earlier than what you guys have in mind."

Matsuzaka also said he spoke to his new manager, Bobby Valentine, Monday, discussing (among other things) Valentine's assertion that the pitcher had become to reliant on his fastball since coming over to the United States.

"It came up in yesterday's conversation," said Matsuzaka, who revealed that at least a portion of the conversation was conducted in Japanese by Valentine. "He spoke his opinions, which I thought were very insightful, and I also told him my thoughts on that. I think we're on the same page and can move forward now."

Overall, Matsuzaka said he is pleased regarding the progress made since undergoing his surgery last June.

"I'm still far from my goal, where I want to be, so I'm just taking it day by day and doing what I can each day," he said. "But I've been told by the trainers that my rehab is going well so I'm happy about that

"When I first came here, right after New Year's, I knew at that point that I wouldn't be ready for Opening Day, so at this point coming into spring training my main goal is not be affected by the pace of the other pitchers who are healthy and make sure I maintain my own pace on my rehab."

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