The forgotten man during the forgotten off-season has got to be Daisuke Matsuzaka. The pitcher who actually won 18 games once for the Red Sox (and a World Series ring) is recovering from Tommy John surgery. He visited New Hampshire yesterday for a Holiday event and said he expects to throw a bullpen session sometime in January. He was non-committal about when he might actually be back starting a major league game, but suggested his rehab process is on track.Dice-K was sporting what can only be described as a circa 1963 "George Harrison" haircut, quite a different look for the right-hander. He also talked about the legendary status of new manager Bobby Valentine is Japan—although the two have yet to chat. If Matsuzaka can be back and healthy by the All-Star break, it will amount to a fairly impactful free-agent signing. We'll see.
(Photo: NESN Screenshot)