Josh Beckett and the Boston Red Sox are nearing a contract extension, according to ESPN, who heard it through the grapevine from some anonymous source familiar with the team’s negotiations.

The Sox have apparently offered their ace a guaranteed four-year contract, which is comparable to the five-year deal John Lackey received this winter.  However, much to Beckett’s disappointment, the team refuses to guarantee a fifth season for him.   It could be worth a total package in the range of $65 million to $70 million as he enters the final season of the contract he signed back in 2007.

Beckett, who is slated to be Boston’s Opening Day starter this Sunday against the New York Yankees, went 17-6 with a 3.86 ERA in 32 starts last season. In eight career postseason starts, the right-hander is 5-1 with a 3.88 ERA.  Not too shabby.

In other Beantown news, Daisuke Matsuzaka threw 62 pitches in a simulated game Monday, throwing 41 pitches for strikes.  The righty’s spring training has been delayed by back and neck issues, but he is scheduled to pitch in an exhibition game Saturday against the Washington Nationals.

Speaking of pitchers with health issues, Boof Bonser and his strained groin muscle also tossed a few innings on Monday, throwing 56 pitches, 42 for strikes.  He is scheduled to pitch in a minor league game Saturday in Fort Myers, Fla.