Red Sox's Dustin Pedroia Hopes to Return Next Week
As the Boston Red Sox are trying to claw their way into a playoff spot, they will receive some major help soon. Second-baseman Dustin Pedroia is getting closer and closer to recovering from a fractured foot and could be in the line-up as early as next week.
Pedroia has been on the disabled list since suffering his injury in a June 25th game against the San Francisco Giants. He hit a foul ball that ricocheted onto his left foot, hitting him just below his shin pad in a freak accident. Pedroia has had some workouts indicating he is close to a full recovery. In his latest workout, he was able to jog around the bases.
"I'm feeling better, so hopefully I wake up tomorrow and feel even better," he said. "Hopefully I'm taking the next step. Three days ago I thought I was out for the year, now I feel like I can play soon. Every day is getting better."
The 2008 AL MVP is certainly a game-breaker when he is playing. He brings energy to the team and gets on base very often right in front of the Sox power hitters. He also leaves a huge hole at second base as he is a Golden Glove winner.
Manager Terry Francona is also eager to see Pedroia move from the dugout to the field: “He’s driving us all nuts, he’s got to get back out there.”
If Pedroia continues to progress throughout the week, then there is the possibility he will be sent on a rehab assignment in Pawtucket for the PawSox next Monday before being activated. That would bring him back in time for the Sox return to Fenway for a nine-game home stand.
"I want to be back when we get home. That's my goal and hopefully it's possible," Pedroia said.
Francona should be a candidate for manager of the year as he’s kept his team in the race of a playoff spot despite so many injuries this season. He realizes though that Pedroia cannot be rushed back, as that would risk further injury. If Pedroia aggravates the injury, that would end his season, so no risks can be taken.
"If he's ready to help us win, there are a lot of ways he can help us win," Francona said. "There will have to be some conversations with Theo, Pedey, myself and what's in his best interest. I'm not sure we know what that is yet. We'll do what we think is best for everybody."
Once Pedroia is back, the Sox will have to catch fire if they are to push for a playoff spot, or perhaps the division title. Unfortunately, their time is running out.
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