Dice-K to start in Japan

Daisuke Matsuzaka's wife gave birth to their second child over the weekend, allowing the Japan-native to pitch on Opening Day in Tokyo on March 25th.

Josh Beckett, the obvious choice for Opening Day, was removed from the starting position on March 8 because of back spasms. As a result, Terry Francona announced on Sunday that Beckett will stay home as the team travels to Japan to start the season against the A's.

Today was Beckett's second day in a row without back spasms, making 55 throws. After throwing in the bullpen this upcoming Thursday, he could return to the mound for a minor league game over the weekend.

The Sox meet the Brooklyn Bombers in Tampa today.