Lackey headed in right direction

John Lackey was feeling just fine a day after a 20-pitch simulated game and will likely throw another one Saturday. In that simulated game Lackey will be extended to 35 or 40 pitches.

If all goes well in that outing, Lackey could be pitching in a minor-league rehab start – most likely with Rancho Cucamonga – by next week.

“If it feels like it did (Wednesday), I'll be ready to go (next week),” said Lackey, who has been on the disabled list since the start of the season with a strained right triceps.