Clay Buchholz met the media briefly today at Boston College and declared himself stronger, emphasizing that his shoulder is fine.

Buchholz, who pitched a no-hitter for the Red Sox in early September, tired at the end of the month and was left off post-season roster because of shoulder fatigue.

The Red Sox said they hoped Buchholz will take off-season conditioning more seriously, and Buchholz said he got the message.

Buchholz spent six weeks at a training facility in Florida. He gained 10 pounds (up to 191) and feels better.

"I got in shape and I do believe my shoulder is ready to go," he said. "I don't feel fatigued any more. I've been throwing a lot since the first of the year. Everything is going as planned, so far."

If Buchholz's plan takes shape, he will be in the starting rotation this year, although the Red Sox currently have six starters.

More on Buchholz in Wednesday's Press Herald.

Buchholz was one of 12 players taking part in the Red Sox Rookie Program at BC, from Jan. 7-18. It is a program designed to ease the transition for players when they reach the major leagues.

The dozen include pitchers Buchholz, Devern Hansack, Michael Bowden, Justin Masterson, Hunter Jones and Dustin Richardson; catcher Dusty Brown; infielders Aaron Bates, Chris Carter and Jed Lowrie; and outfielders Bubba Bell and Jonathan Van Every.

Jones, Richardson, Bates and Bell will all be in Portland Friday for the Sea Dogs annual Hot Stove Dinner, 5:30 p.m. at Keeley The Katerer in Portland. Tickets are $18. Call the Sea Dogs (874-9300) for information.

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