Dustin Pedroia Suffers 'Significant Setback,' Discussing Options

Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia could soon face a difficult choice after suffering what was reported to be a "significant setback" in his injured knee.

"Pedroia has suffered what sources say was a significant setback with his left knee," The Boston Globe's Peter Abraham said. "His availability for at least spring training is questionable. Pedroia is discussing his options with his family, agents, and the Sox."

It's the latest of a string of setbacks for the former MVP, who has played just nine games in the last two seasons. His hard-nosed style of play has lent itself to a number of injuries, including a left knee that needed surgery before the 2017 season. The knee was re-injured when he was on the wrong end of a slide that season, a moment that may end up costing Pedroia his career.

His comeback attempts in 2018 and 2019 were cut short after just three and six games, respectively.

Even if Pedroia was able to return, he would be a 36-year-old looming injury threat who hasn't played consistently in three years.

Complicating matters is Pedroia's contract status. He has two years and $25 million remaining on his deal, and if he were to retire, it would almost certainly come via a deal with the Sox that recoups some of that money.

Fans have whispered about Pedroia possibly joining a coaching staff that suddenly finds itself in flux after the Red Sox and Alex Cora agreed to part ways in the wake of a cheating scandal.

Pedroia won Rookie of the Year in 2007 and MVP the following season. He is also a four-time Gold Glove winner and All-Star.