It wasn't a gigantic leap forward for Chris Sale, but it was a step, nonetheless.
For the second time within the last week, Sale turned in a 3 2/3-inning start for Double-A Portland at Hadlock Field, throwing 64 pitches (46 strikes) Sunday afternoon.
The pitch count was 15 more than his previous outing, with Sale's fastball velocity coming in pretty much the same (95-97 mph) as what was witnessed Tuesday.
This time Sale did give up six hits and a pair of runs, including a homer, but also struck out nine without walking a batter.
The Red Sox want Sale to reach the 80-85-pitch level before reintroducing him to the major leagues.
It has been 483 days since Sale underwent Tommy John surgery.
For more on Sale's road back from the procedure, click here.