Dice-K goes four

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Dice-K went four innings today allowing four hits and two runs.

Nothing exciting.

He said he was pleased with his progression this spring. He said his goal was to throw a lot of first pitch strikes and he seemed to accomplish that. He said his teammates have been asking him a lot of questions about Japan and what to eat in anticipation of the big trip.

Still no firm yes or no on whether he'll pitch there with his wife expecting child next Wednesday (that's the due date). The Sox leave for Japan that night.

Jonathan Papelbon pitched a string inning with two strikeouts. The Sox are up 5-2 in the top of the sixth. The rain has held off so far.