BOSTON -- Red Sox center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr. is progressing ahead of schedule since being placed on the 10-day disabled list on Wednesday with a left thumb sprain.
Soreness and swelling had decreased in and around the thumb on Friday.
"He was really encouraged and a lot more confident with where he was [Friday] compared to the day before that," Boston manager John Farrell said before Saturday's game against the Orioles.
A smaller splint has been placed on the thumb, and all signs point to Bradley being able to mobilize it before the seven days originally recommended.
"The coming days will really impact when he'll make his return," Farrell said.
Worth noting
• Second baseman Dustin Pedroia took part in early defensive work and batting practice before Saturday's game. He has been on the 10-day DL with left knee inflammation since Aug. 12 (retroactive to Aug. 9).
• Left-hander David Price threw from 120 feet before Saturday's game, and he will continue to progress if no pain lingers in his left elbow, which has had him on the DL since July 28 (retroactive to July 25).