Updates

Good news out of NY: Pedro Martinez' recovering is going even better that expected. He said, "The Mets doctors told me that my shoulder is completely clean and it wouldn't be weird if I throw faster than in the last two or three years, when the pain and tiredness affected my shoulder." Glad to hear it!

Thursday, Mike Lowell received the Jackie Jensen Award for spirit and determination. "I was happy that the Red Sox gave me the opportunity, not only to come over here but to play every day," said Lowell. "I think that was big. I know they had [Kevin] Youkilis as an insurance policy and J.T. Snow -- all that stuff. I'm glad I was able to prove that I could play every day and have a solid year." We're all glad he had a solid year, too, and I have a feeling he will have another good year in 2007.

So this Rookie Development Program - I hope a closer will come out of it. Or at least the beginnings of one. Craig Hansen does have promise, and with guidance and some confidence he would be a possibility. Apparently there will be a mental approach aspect to the program, which young players (especially in Boston) really need. It can be such a high pressure situation - I really think that will be an important and useful tool.