Here’s how conditioned we are as Red Sox fans. We consider it good news when Daisuke Matsuzaka “threw off the mound” in Spring Training. I don’t want to start off on a negative note, so let’s change the subject.

The word is Papelbon is a highly motivated man going into Spring Training. As fuel for his motivation, he’s been watching his implosion in the 2009 ALDS against the Angels. Talk about getting into your own head. Not only is he regaining his confidence with his 95mph+ fastball, but he’s back to developing that insane splitter we saw a few times last season, but without regularity.

The team’s first exhibition game comes against Northeastern on March 3rd. Nothing all that exciting, but broadcasts do begin on MLBTV to go with it, and I ‘m more than ready for the season to begin… in any capactiy.

Finally, Hermida is being bumped down to the Minors for the time being until space can be made for him on the regular roster. It’s the first time Jeremy Hermida has been in the Minors since being called up to the Majors in 2005 by the Marlins. He’ll more than likely start the season as the fourth outfielder.

As always, your questions and comments are welcome!