Projo Sox Blog

By Joe McDonald
Journal Sports Writer

BOSTON _ Dustin Pedroia has decided to put family first.

The Red Sox second baseman, and reigning A.L. MVP, will not play in the All-Star Game on Tuesday in St. Louis. He will remain in Boston with his pregnant wife, Kelli, who was recently hospitalized. This is the couple's first child, a boy, and she's about seven weeks from her due date.

Pedroia spoke - at length - with manager Terry Francona, general manager Theo Epstein and Phyllis Merhige of Major League Baseball before making a decision.

"This was certainly not an easy decision," he said. "I have a tremendous amount of respect for the game of baseball and for the All-Star Game. I'm incredibly honored that the fans voted me this year's starting second baseman for the American League.

"I am disappointed that I will not be able to enjoy the amazing experience with the other All-Stars, especially with my Red Sox teammates, but it is important that I put my family first at this time."

The Rays' Carlos Pena will replace Pedroia on the A.L. roster.

"I want to thank Major League Baseball, as well as Tito and Theo, for supporting me in this decision. I also want to thank all the fans for their understanding and the continued support they have shown throughout my career."

Pedroia and his wife have been stressing about the decision. Pedroia even went as far as trying to book a private jet in the range of $20,000 to take him to St. Louis in time for the game and bring him back to Boston after he was done playing.

Finally, Francona sat with Pedroia on Saturday and asked him, "What's the worst case scenario if you don't go?"

"I'm mad," answered Pedroia.

"What's the worst case scenario if you go," asked Francona.

Pedroia would not be with his wife in case something happened. Francona was not around when one of his children were born during his playing days, and he regrets it till this day. He didn't want Pedroia to feel the same way.

The decision has been agonizing.

"Probably tougher than people realize," said Francona. "Because of his character, he was really having a tough time. I hope when it came down to it, I'm not taking credit for it, but I hope I influenced him. . He's been stressing about it. Kelli's been stressing about it. It's not something he took remotely lightly at all. I think, and know, it's the right decision. Because you can't predict the future it's the only decision."

Over the last week, Pedroia has been on a tear at the plate despite the family issue. Entering Sunday's game, he has recorded multiple hits in four of his last six games, going 13-for-27 (.481) with 6 doubles, 1 triple, 2 homers, 5 RBI and 7 runs scored.

"When he gets on the field, he has an amazing ability to play the game," said Francona. "Regardless of what's going on, he's a good player. I'm sure he's been thinking about other things at times, but he's just a real good player."

 Tags  All-Star game Dustin Pedroia Terry Francona

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