Smith could pitch extended spring training next Saturday

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BOSTON - Carson Smith continues to work his way back to the Red Sox 25-man roster.

The reliever traded from the Mariners to the Sox over the offseason began the season on the DL (retroactive to March 25) after suffering a right flexor muscle strain.

He could get his first bit of game action since then next Saturday, according to John Farrell.

"He threw 35 pitches of live BP today," Farrell said. "Came through that fine. His next step would be live BP in a sim game on Tuesday. Tentative plan is Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday of next week with two sim and potentially a game by next weekend in the extended [spring training]. So this coming week will be a good test for him."

The Red Sox bullpen currently ranks 11th in the majors with a 3.09 ERA. Smith will likely eventually take the spot of either Matt Barnes (2.08 ERA) or Noe Ramirez (4.76 ERA).

Eduardo Rodriguez, who has been on the DL all season with a right patella subluxation, also appears to be on the right track.

"Eddie will go with some additional pitches thrown on Monday in a sim game as well," Farrell said.

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