Boston Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia, who has not played since 2019 due to a knee injury suffered two seasons earlier, announced his retirement Monday.
Pedroia, 37, a four-time All-Star who was named Rookie of the Year in 2007 and an American League MVP in 2008, played his entire 17-season career in the Red Sox organization. He won three World Series rings with the Red Sox and was a four-time Golden Glove winner.
“Dustin is so much more than his award for Most Valuable Player in the American League, his selections in the All-Star Game and the Golden Gloves he accumulated over his impressive 17-year career in our organization, “Red Sox owner John Henry said in a statement.
“Dustin came to represent the kind of determination, passion and competitive drive that resonates among baseball fans everywhere and especially among Red Sox fans. He played the game he loves in the service of our club, the his principles and the pursuit of championships. We are all eternally grateful for what he brought to our club and our region as an important role model, showing us all how much can be achieved with determination and hard work. “
Pedroia’s knee problems began in April 2017, when then-Baltimore Orioles star Manny Machado hit Pedroia with a strong slip to second base. Since then, he has undergone multiple surgeries on his left knee, starting with the initial procedure in October 2017. He played only nine games in total between the 2018 and 19th seasons.
In 14 seasons in Major Leagues it beat 299/365/439 with 140 home runs, 394 doubles and 725 impelled races.