Pedroia Named AL Rookie of the Year

For the second consecutive year a former member of the Portland Sea Dogs was named Rookie of the Year. This time around it was long-time SeaBlog fave Dustin Pedroia who ran away with honors in the American League, taking 24 of 28 first place votes and easily outdistancing Tampa Bay outfielder Delmon Young.

Last year, Pedroia's former Portland teammate Hanley Ramirez captured the National League honor as Florida's shortstop. A third member of that 2005 squad, Jonathan Papelbon, was runner up in the AL last season.

Pedroia overcame a slow start to finish the season with a 317/380/442-8-50 line. Pedroia held his own in the middle of a veteran-laden lineup. He was third on the team (and 10th in the AL) in batting average, 4th on the team in OBP and second with 39 doubles and 86 runs scored. He didn't draw walks at the same clip we saw from him in the minors, but he did walk more than he struck out (47 vs. 42), indicating good strike zone judgment and an excellent ability to put the ball in play. Pedroia led all qualifying AL rookies in average, slugging percentage, runs scored, doubles and OPS, and he was second in OBP. He also capably handled the leather at second base, exhibiting good range and a strong arm, and committing only six errors.

Two other Red Sox, Japanese import pitchers Daisuke Matsuzaka and Hideki Okajima, also received consideration, finishing 4th and 6th respectively.

On Tuesday it was announced that former Sea Dog Josh Beckett had finished second behind Cleveland's CC Sabathia for the AL Cy Young Award. Beckett's chances were done in by Sabathia's 40+ advantage in innings pitched. Ironically, this may have been the difference that allowed Beckett to dominate throughout the post season while Sabathia was hit hard. Boston fans will take Beckett's contribution to another World Championship any day.