"Carlos Quentin had some encouraging words Wednesday before joining his teammates in pregame batting practice.

"I'm getting closer," Quentin said while carrying several bats.

After missing five weeks because of plantar fasciitis in his left foot, Quentin has increased the intensity of his workouts to the point where a minor-league rehabilitation assignment is coming into focus.

Because of the nature of his injury and the lengthy recovery, this won't be a brisk stint at Triple-A Charlotte, hitting coach Greg Walker said.

Quentin, who led the Sox with 36 home runs in only 100 games last season, will be placed on a deliberate program designed to ensure he will be able to withstand the rigors of playing the outfield and running the bases once he returns, which is expected after the All-Star break."