The Red Sox second baseman has been shelved since May 28, when he re-aggravated a thumb injury only to learn later in the week that he suffered a torn adductor in his right thumb.
But after the team's 5-1 loss to the Blue Jays on Sunday, Pedroia told reporters in Toronto that he intended to return on Tuesday, when the Red Sox open up a six-game home stand against the Orioles and the Nationals.
If the Red Sox elect to go that route, there are certainly risks. By playing Pedroia — who will be sporting a customized splint — it increases the possibility of complicating the injury, one that would shut him down for at least three-to-four weeks.
The team doesn't need to look much further than Carl Crawford as a primary example to the possible setbacks. Back in Fort Myers, the outfielder attempted to accelerate his rehab from wrist surgery by taking swings earlier than usual.
Unfortunately for Crawford, the pain in his left wrist resurfaced. It ultimtately prompted the Red Sox medical staff to shut him down for the duration of spring training –– before an elbow injury cropped up.
Now, injuries and tolerance for pain vary with each player. For all we know, Pedroia could continue to belt lasers and quash all concerns.
This isn't the first time that Pedroia has battled through a hand injury. In 2007, the second baseman played through the last two months of the season despite suffering a cracked hamate bone in his left wrist.
Through 14 postseason games in 2007, Pedroia still contributed at an effective level, batting .283 with two homers and 10 RBIs. As a result of the performance, the 28-year-old has showcased a high threshold for pain.
He could ultimately avoid the disabled list without any issues. But either way, it's still a gamble for the Red Sox.
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