The Boston Red Sox have decided to accept reality, and put an end to the idea that Dustin Pedroi will return at any point this season.
Despite having played in just three games this season due knee ailments, the Boston Red Sox had hoped that Dustin Pedroia would return at some point in 2018. A presumably rested Pedroia would be able to make an impact upon the lineup, his scrappy, hard nosed style helping to set the table for the middle of the Red Sox order. At least, that was the dream scenario.
However, as the days and weeks passed, that seemed progressively unlikely. Finally, the Red Sox have decided to accept reality, and have put an end to any hope that Pedrioa will return this season.
Dustin Pedroia will not return in 2018, Alex Cora announced. Pedroia had an arthroscopic procedure on knee in Arizona in July, Cora said. Disclosed first time today. "He understands where he's at." Pedroia to speak to media today
— Evan Drellich (@EvanDrellich) September 7, 2018
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Over the course of the season, the Red Sox took action just in case this scenario would play out. They acquired Ian Kinsler at the trade deadline, even though he has had his own injury concerns. Yet, when he has been on the field, Kinsler has performed well for Boston, posting a .310/.355/.408 batting line in his 76 plate appearances.
The Red Sox also have other options at second, just in case. Brock Holt and Eduardo Nunez can both play second, even though they are far more valuable as super utility players. Brandon Phillips was signed as an emergency option, and while he looked good in his one game with the Red Sox, he is more of a “break glass in case of emergency” piece.
Right now, the focus is to get Pedroia ready for 2019, when he will presumably return to his accustomed role. Kinsler will have departed as a free agent, and the Red Sox hold an option on Nunez fr the coming year. Yet, even if Nunez is retained, along with Holt, Pedroia would be the preferred option to go forward at second base.
The Boston Red Sox are no longer holding out hope for Dustin Pedroia’s return to the lineup this season. Now, they can move forward, and set their sights on the playoffs, knowing what they have.