Felix Doubront has big plans for this season.

Among them: Becoming an American citizen.

The 23-year-old lefty from Venezuela spent all but three weeks of the offseason living with his wife in her hometown of Greenville, S.C. The two met when he was playing for the Drive in Single-A in 2007.

"The last couple of years, I've stayed a little bit longer here and then gone back to Venezuela," he said. "It's a lot different. I've got family in Venezuela but now, here, this is my new family. I like it here. I miss Venezuela when I'm here, but I try to work out here. It feel like it's better here than in Venezuela. I try to stay here to work out."

He's getting used to the everyday life of living in the United States, too.

"My wife was born here," he said. "We've got plenty of time to go out. I love the United States."

Doubront last season climbed from Double-A Portland all the way to the major leagues, making three starts and nine relief appearances for the Red Sox until a neck injury sidelined him for the rest of the season. He pronounced himself in good health and ready to go this spring.

"I feel great," he said. "I don't know when I'm going to start throwing on the mound in games, but, for now, so far, so good."