It’s always a special moment when a player decides to hang up his hat after a legendary career. Such was the case when legendary Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia decided to retire after serving a very respectable 14 years in the MLB.
He was originally drafted in 2004 in the 2nd round by the Red Sox, but it wasn’t clear how good he was going to be. However, it didn’t take long for them to realize that this youngster was the real deal.
By the time he had made his official MLB debut in 2006, he was their starting second baseman, and for good reason. His rookie season saw him average .317 at the plate, earning him AL Rookie of the Year honors. To round everything out, he helped the Red Sox win the World Series that year too.
By the time the 2008 season rolled around, Pedroia was so good that he managed to win the AL MVP award. Throughout his career, he also managed to make four All-Star teams and win four Gold Glove awards.
Unfortunately, the tail end of his career was riddled with injury problems, which is the primary reason for his retirement.
Nevertheless, the Red Sox organization and fans alike will be sure to give him a respectable and proper send-off.
