While Dustin Pedroia is set to start the season on the injured list, it doesn't seem likely that he will be away from the Boston Red Sox for long. In fact, he may be able to get on the field for the team's home opener.
According to WEEI's Rob Bradford, the plan right now is for Pedroia to return for the Red Sox' first game at Fenway Park on April 9. Here's what Pedroia said about the possibility, per Bradford.
I'm still pushing. I'm always excited ... There is a reward at the end of everything. To be able to be out there (at Fenway) and be ready to play, it would be awesome.
The Red Sox are likely just playing it safe with Pedroia. He even acknowledged that the Red Sox were "scared" to have him on the Opening Day roster. Having him return for the home opener seems like a sensible target, as he'll have a chance to play and build up some more stamina and play in back-to-back games.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox should be in fine shape without him. Brock Holt and Eduardo Nunez can hold the fort until he is ready to return. Both have proven to be capable starters in the past, so that's likely why the team isn't rushing Pedroia back.
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