By Joe Haggerty
CSNNE.com Bruins InsiderFollow @hackswithhaggs
BOSTONClay Buchholz finally got on the mound today to test his ailing back, and had his most positive day since landing on the 15-day disabled list.
The lean right-hander threw 30 pitches in the bullpen at Fenway Park and admitted feeling a little soreness in his troublesome back after the session, but he was able to ward away any of the soreness with a few simple stretches after the throwing session was over.
Buchholz estimated that he would have to reevaluate his progress in a months time after he has built up his arm strength and began throwing in anger to live hitters, but Friday counted as a good initial step in the lengthy comeback process.
I felt better. It feels like the ball is really coming out of my hand well. Thats the one thing I didnt expect there, said Buchholz, who hasnt pitched since June 16. There was still a little soreness in the back coming off after I threw and sat down for about 10 minutes. I did a couple of stretches and I felt better. So thats the biggest step in the right direction for the entire process.
I want to be ready to be go. If its in the middle of August that's fine. If it'sthe beginning of September before his return then thats good too. I want to be able to get to the postseason and work our way throughonce we get there.
Buchholz said hell have a day off on Tuesday, throw a light game of catch on Wednesday and then toss another bullpen session off the mound at the end of the week to further the forward progression. If theres no setback with his cranky back then Buchholz should be back well before the all-important postseason. "The ball came out of his hand great," said Terry Francona. "I mean, if you watched him throw you would never believe that hes missed time."Joe Haggerty can be reached at jhaggerty@comcastsportsnet.com. Follow Joe on Twitter at http:twitter.comHackswithHaggs