Roger The Rocket Nears Return Date

American League

Roger Clemens took his first major step toward returning to the Boston Red Sox Monday when he threw for 8 minutes off a mound at the team’s minor league complex in Fort Myers, Fla.

Red Sox physical therapist Rich Zawacki said Clemens threw between “60-80 percent” velocity and will take today off before throwing again on Wednesday.

Under the best-case scenario, Zawacki figures Clemens is a “week to 10 days” from throwing in a minor-league game.

Clearing the bases

Relief pitcher Rusty Meacham agreed to a $465,000, one-year contract with Kansas City… . Oakland shortstop Mike Bordick was placed on the 15-day disabled list after spraining his right ankle.

White Sox 4, Twins 2

Chicago

Frank Thomas and Warren Newson hit back-to-back homers in the first inning and Alex Fernandez finally got his first win as Chicago beat Minnesota.

Indians 6, Royals 2

Cleveland

Carlos Baerga had RBI singles in his first two at-bats as Cleveland handed Kevin Appier his first loss in four starts.

Rangers 7, A’s 4 (10)

Oakland, Calif.

Otis Nixon drove in two runs with a 10th-inning single to lead Texas past Oakland, the Rangers’ third win in the four-game series.