BOSTON — It’s possible — if not likely — Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia will not return from the 15-day disabled list until after the Major League Baseball All-Star break.
Pedroia, who has been on the DL with a hamstring injury since June 25, was eligible to return Friday but was not in the starting lineup for Boston’s matchup with the New York Yankees at Fenway Park. He ran the bases for the first time since the injury before the game, though, and Red Sox manager John Farrell left open the possibility of the team using next week’s four-day break to its advantage to give Pedroia additional rest.
“Obviously we’re getting to that point, what’s the risk-reward for the potential for additional days of recovery,” Farrell said. “No roster move (Friday).”
The Red Sox close out the first half this weekend with three huge games against the Yankees. Boston begins its second-half slate next Friday against the Los Angeles Angels, kicking off a seven-game road trip that includes four games against the Halos and three contests against the Houston Astros.
When asked whether the Red Sox have considered sending Pedroia on a rehab assignment before the break in order to ease his way into game action, Farrell said the possibility hasn’t been discussed.
“Before the break, no. … We haven’t even approached that yet,” Farrell said. “We’re looking at Pedey’s health and well-being first. He’ll be on the field as soon as he’s available.”
Pedroia has dealt with several injuries throughout his 10-year career, but a hamstring ailment is something new. The Red Sox certainly don’t want to rush the four-time All-Star back into action.
“Obviously it’s not a chronic thing,” Farrell said. “But it was a pretty substantial injury at the time and we’re going based on the guidance of the medical staff.”
The Red Sox need a good showing this weekend against the American League East leaders. They finally have some momentum going and are starting to make up ground in the division. Boston has 73 more games to worry about in the second half, though, and having a healthy Pedroia down the stretch is vital.
Thumbnail photo via Peter Aiken/USA TODAY Sports Images
