Sox stalwart suffers ‘significant setback’
Pedroia’s status unclear with left knee injury
Dustin Pedroia has suffered a “significant setback” in his left knee, and the Red Sox second baseman’s status for the start of spring training next month is uncertain.
The 36-year-old was trying to make another comeback and overcome persistent issues in his left knee that have forced him to play just nine games over the past two seasons. But his future playing baseball is again in serious doubt.
“Dustin has suffered a significant setback while rehabbing his left knee injury,” a Red Sox spokesman said. “As a result, his status for spring training is uncertain.”
Pedroia is reportedly mulling his future with several people, including his family, agents and the Red Sox.
Pedroia, who has had five surgeries on his knee since 2016, acknowledged his playing days might be numbered when he was shut down for the season last May, but didn’t quit. In November, Pedroia’s progress in his rehab was going so well that it led the Red Sox and the second baseman to be cautiously optimistic about his chances to return in 2020.
“Every indication I’ve gotten is that he’s feeling good and intending on playing,” Red Sox chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom said at the GM Meetings.
The Red Sox weren’t counting on Pedroia to return, and they have several options at second heading into 2020. Michael Chavis played significant time there last season, and the Sox signed Jose Peraza this offseason. C.J. Chatham, a top Sox prospect, could also make a case.