Lackey starts rehab assignment in strong fashion

BOSTON -- Right-hander John Lackey had a strong opening to his Minor League rehab assignment on Monday night, firing 3 2/3 shutout innings at Double-A Portland.

Lackey gave up three hits while walking two and striking out five. He threw 67 pitches, 45 for strikes.

This was the first game action for Lackey since April 6, when he strained his right bicep in a game against the Blue Jays.

He will need at least one more Minor League start before he is ready to rejoin the Red Sox.

Lefty relievers Craig Breslow and Franklin Morales are also on the rehab trail this week. Breslow will pitch on Tuesday for Portland. Morales, who is being stretched out as a starter, pitched on Wednesday night at Portland.

The original schedule had Morales piggybacking Lackey on Monday, but that changed when Morales had some soreness in his left pectoral muscle.