Reigning AL MVP Dustin Pedroia will not be participating in the All-Star Game Tuesday night in St. Louis. Because his wife, Kelli, has been hospitalized with complications from her pregnancy, Pedroia announced yesterday he will spend the off-time with his wife.
Tampa Bay first baseman Carlos Pena, who leads the AL in homers with 24, will replace Pedroia on the AL roster.
"After consulting with Tito [Terry Francona], Theo [Epstein], Phyllis Merhige of Major League Baseball and my wife, Kelli, I have decided to withdraw from this year's All-Star Game in St. Louis. I will instead stay in Boston with my wife as we tend to a serious family health matter," Pedroia said in a prepared statement.
"This was certainly not an easy decision. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the game of baseball and for the All-Star Game and am incredibly honored that the fans voted me this year's starting second baseman for the American League. I am disappointed that I will not be able to enjoy the amazing experience with the other All-Stars, especially with my Red Sox teammates, but it is important that I put my family first at this time.
"I want to thank Major League Baseball as well as Tito and Theo for supporting me in this decision and I would like to thank the fans for their understanding and the continued support they have shown throughout my career."
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