With Beckett going just 5 2/3 innings last start, the Sox are hoping they can get more out of him. With both Buccholz and Lackey going deep into their games, Beckett hopes to do the same and bring the sweep back to Boston. In good news, Mike Lowell is making significant progress and could be activated as early as Friday.

With 3 home runs in his last rehab game in Pawtucket, Lowell has shown that he is ready to come back and contribute to the team. Pedroia is expected to miss around two more weeks and Varitek is still on crutches and behind Pedroia in his progress.