Boston Red Sox: 30 Greatest Players in Team History
Sep 13, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia (15) hits a single against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Griffith-USA TODAY Sports
22: Dustin Pedroia, 2B (2006-current)
As the saying goes, “good things can come in small packages” and Dustin Pedroia is living proof of that. Standing at 5-foot-7, many look at Pedroia and wonder how such a small player can be so successful for an extended period of time? He is obviously talented, but the answer comes from his hard work and determination to consistently get the job done.
Pedroia made his debut towards the end of the 2006 season but Red Sox Nation was formally introduced to Pedroia during the 2007 season. Pedroia consistently started smashing balls that were up in the zone and in, his quick hands and violent swing allowed him to turn on balls and pull them with power. A great ability to have for a right-handed hitter at Fenway Park.
He was named the American League Rookie of the Year in 2007, but Pedroia really burst on to the national scene with his play in 2008, where he hit .323/.376/.493 with 17 home runs, 83 RBI and 20 stolen bases. Pedroia also led the league in runs (118), hits (213) and doubles (54) that season, and was voted as the American League MVP for his incredible play.
Throughout his career Pedroia has been able to not only maintain his power and consistency at the plate, but has also been a defensive wizard for the Red Sox, solidifying the second base position for the past nine seasons.
At age 32, Pedroia enters the 2016 season with two World Series Championships under his belt along with an MVP award, a Rookie of the Year, four All-Star appearances, three Gold Gloves and one Silver Slugger. There is no doubt that he has solidified himself as one of the best Red Sox second basemen in team history, and with plenty of time to add to his resume, Pedroia will only fly up this list.
Bio on Pedroia was given by DJ Smith. Check out his work, and give him a follow on Twitter, @dj_smitty.
Next: Number 21