That's because Pedroia — who fractured his foot June 25 in San Francisco — has gone on the disabled list and is expected to be out for at least six weeks.
Despite the setback, Pedroia is still finding ways to stay active with the club. Wednesday afternoon, he took ground balls — on his knees.
"I was out there for about five minutes. I am pretty bored. I really
don't have a lot to do right now," Pedroia said.
The Red Sox acquired Eric Patterson from the Athletics over the weekend in hopes that he might be able to fill in while Pedroia heals. Bill Hall will also see time at second base.
Red Sox catcher Victor Martinez, who has battled a toe injury all year long, was placed on the 15-day disabled list Monday with a broken left thumb he suffered June 27.
Although it was unclear initially whether or not Martinez would need to even make a trip to the DL, further tests upon returning from the West Coast showed that he would. The good news, though, is that Martinez will not need surgery.
In his absence, the Red Sox called up catcher Gustavo Molina from Triple-A Pawtucket.
The Red Sox also received some good news in regards to pitcher Clay Buchholz, who was diagnosed with a left hamstring strain two days after leaving his June 26 start after aggravating it while running the bases.
MLB.com reported Tuesday that Buchholz was starting to feel better, and the fact that the Sox have two days off this week have made it possible for Buchholz to avoid a trip to the disabled list.
Red Sox infielder Jed Lowrie is slowly working his way back from a bout with mononucleosis and is slated to start a rehab assignment July 3 with Single-A Lowell.
Outfielder J.D. Drew was originally in the lineup Wednesday against the Rays, but was scratched shortly before first pitch with a stiff neck.
Jacoby Ellsbury continues to rehab his rib injury in Arizona, and there is still no timetable for his return.
