Projo Sox Blog

By Joe McDonald
Journal Sports Writer

BALTIMORE -- Dustin Pedroia says he doesn't care either way, but manager Terry Francona believes moving Pedroia back to the No. 2 spot in the order will help him.

In his place, J.D. Drew is leading off tonight.

"It's not the biggest deal in the world," said Francona. "I thought Pedey was almost being too conscientious. The last thing I want guys to do is change. I don't know if he has the ability. He sees himself hitting first and he wants so bad to do the right thing, he's getting himself in the hole with the count, and I just thought to move him back to second. ... He's just trying too hard to do the right thing. We just want him to be himself."

Francona said Pedroia did not complain to him about leading off. In fact, he didn't want to change because the Sox have been winning.

"That's Pedey. That's why we love him. He cares more about winning than himself," said Francona.

When asked about the change, Pedroia said it really didn't matter to him. He admitted he's a little more aggressive in the leadoff spot, whereas he can think more situational hitting from the No. 2 spot.

"As long as we keep finding ways to win, which is huge," Pedroia said.

Opposing pitchers have been pitching him away more this season, and even though his power numbers are down, he already has more doubles than he did at this point a season ago.

 Tags  Dustin Pedroia J.D. Drew

---