Could more starting pitching help be on the way sooner than later?

It could, if Daisuke Matsuzaka's success in the minors continues.

Matsuzaka pitched 4 23 scoreless innings for AAA-Pawtucket Monday night, giving up just two hits and three walks, while striking out four. He left in the fourth inning after giving up a two-out double followed by a walk, the fourth and final ball being his 87th pitch.

The PawSox beat the Rochester Red Wings, 4-0, but Matsuzaka left with a 0-0 tie.

It's the second straight game that Matsuzaka has gone 4 23 innings. He did the same in AA-Portland, giving up a run on three hits and two walks, while striking out seven.

Mark Melancon pitched a scoreless ninth Monday night, giving up a hit and striking out the side.