Hideki Matsuyama shot a 4-under-par 67 to temporarily move into fifth place, while compatriot Ryo Ishikawa missed the cut at the Phoenix Open on Friday.
Matsuyama nailed six birdies against a pair of bogeys to move within three shots of the lead in the second round suspended due to darkness. Four players were unable to complete their rounds Friday at par-71 TPC Scottsdale.
"I am really pleased with my score but not satisfied with the way I played," said Matsuyama, who closed out at 9-under 133, three shots behind joint leaders Mat Jones of Australia and American Bubba Watson.
"It's important to be around the top (of the leaderboard). I will practice with all my clubs to try and stay in this position."