SEATTLE -- Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia (fractured left foot) appears to be progressing at a rapid pace, and every day he’s been able to do something different with his rehab.

The walking cast he’s been required to wear is becoming less frequent and he’s been able to hit in the cage. He still takes grounders and has been playing catch, too.

Red Sox manager Terry Francona explained that Pedroia had a productive day with agility and strengthening work Thursday at Safeco Field.

"Everything he can do that stays in the boundaries of what he’s allowed to do, we’re trying to get creative,” Francona said. “When he hits in the cage, he keeps the boot on. He’s doing everything he can so when he gets that thing off he’ll be ready -- quickly."

Pedroia will be examined again early next week when the teams plays in Anaheim. The team's medical staff has been strict with Pedroia and that won't change until he's given clearance to play. The original timetable for his return was six weeks, but Pedroia has always said he'll be back sooner.

"We keep saying he's unique, maybe he is," Francona said.

Pedroia knows he’s getting close.

He said he’s feeling good and he received his custom-made protective spikes from New Balance Thursday. There’s extra padding made of Kevlar on the top of his left spike and special movable braces inside the shoe, too.