Speaking on a conference call, Red Sox pitcher Tim Wakefield said “everything was awesome” regarding Wednesday’s surgery on his herniated disc in his back and that he plans on beginning his usual preparation for the 2010 season in 4-6 week

Wakefield reiterated that he is still setting the goal of winning 200 career games, while also setting the mark for most victories by a Red Sox’ pitcher, currently owned by Roger Clemens and Cy Young (192), which he is shy of 17 of tying. The 43-year-old said that he had no regrets on how he or the team handled the injury, which limited Wakefield to four starts after the All-Star break. Wakefield also said that his arm felt fresher, even before the injury, than the last few seasons.

It was assumed that if the surgery went well the Red Sox would pick up the 43-year-old’s $4 million option for the 2010 season. The Red Sox have five days after the conclusion of the World Series to exercise the option.

“Wake is someone that is in our plans and we hope makes starts for us next year and is a member of the rotation,” said Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein during a press conference the day after the conclusion of the Red Sox’ season. “We haven’t sat down and finalized anything. Obviously we want to see how the surgery goes and then both sides will sit down and talk.” 

Wakefield has said that doctors told him that the procedure would not hinder his preparation for next season. The disc had pressed on a nerves in the pitcher’s back, causing weakness in his right leg.