FORT MYERS, Fla. -- On a back field behind the Red Sox clubhouse Monday morning, catcher Christian Vazquez's comeback took another important step forward.
Vazquez, who underwent Tommy John surgery on his right elbow last March, made a dozen throws to bases -- four each to first, second and third base -- as bullpen coach Dana Levangie and manager John Farrell watched.
Vazquez estimated that this marked the sixth time he had undergone the exercise in the last few weeks and said he was throwing at about 90 percent intensity.
"Felt great,'' said a beaming Vazquez. "This was my best day throwing. I felt strong. Nothing (sore) in the arm. It was a great day for me.''
It was especially a relief for Vazquez, who, about 10 days ago, experienced some soreness in the elbow after throwing.
"Thank God,'' said Vazquez. "I was scared (when that happened). That was my first soreness after surgery, but there was no soreness today. Today, I felt ready to play again. It felt like I did in 2014.''
"[He was] better over his last session,'' noted Farrell. "And the closer he gets to full 100 percent, his actions are more crisp, the timing in his transfer is more Christian-like. Today was a good day.''
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The plan calls for Vazquez to bases again on Wednesday, then catch David Price in a simulated game at the minor-league complex Saturday.
The Sox can control the environment because it's a simulated game, and plan to put some baserunners in motion during innings in which Vazquez is behind the plate.
After Saturday, the Sox will begin mapping out a schedule for him to play in Grapefruit League games.
"He's doing a good job listening to his body and not rushing things,'' said Farrell.