Dustin Pedroia Has Earned Boston’s Trust

For the first time in Dustin Pedroia’s long tenure with the Boston Red Sox, he is receiving real criticism from the fans and the media.

This past week, there were reports that Pedroia was one of the many Red Sox players who applauded David Price for mocking and yelling at Dennis Eckersley.

Some reports conflicted with each other, however. Some reports said that he did clap for Price, others said that he did not.

The possibility that Pedroia did show public appreciation for Price’s actions resulted in a backlash from the media and fans.

Writers and talk show hosts started questioning Pedroia's ability to be the leader of the Red Sox.

“This is why we need David Ortiz in the clubhouse. Pedroia can’t do the job, so we need Big Papi back."

That has been the message all week long.

If there is one thing that Pedroia has earned in his 10-year career it is the benefit of the doubt.

Pedroia has played at a consistent level every single day for his entire career.

His accolades are endless.

He was the rookie of the year. He was the MVP. He won three world series rings.

At a generous 5 ft. 9, Pedroia has even batted fourth for this team in his career. He has played through seasons with broken bones and ligaments, and never complained to anyone.

We only learn after the season when he gets surgery that he was even hurt.

Even when he is beaten up, when he is told to have an off day, Pedroia complains.

On defense, he sacrifices his body every single day, making diving plays look routine.

Unlike Hanley Ramirez and many other prima donna athletes, Pedroia takes pride in the fact that he plays at 100% intensity level every single day. He is constantly the first person to the ballpark, and his work ethic is unquestionable.

He clearly knows what it takes to win.

What more can we say about the guy?

The fact that he has been as successful as he has at his height and weight is remarkable, and he is one of the most respectable athletes Boston has ever seen.

Now, as only Boston can do, with one report of a minor act that does not look great in the public eye, people start questioning his leadership ability and his integrity.

Give Price a hard time. Give Pablo Sandoval a hard time.

Cut Pedroia some slack.

Even if he did Clap for Price, which he denies, this guy has earned one minor mistake.

He has never had any drama in his ten years, has never broken the law, or do anything that would compromise his integrity.

When players screw up in Boston, they should be held accountable.

But Pedroia has earned Boston’s trust. Don’t treat him like any other Boston athlete.

He’s not. He’s better.