Red Sox Dustin Pedroia to the DL

Boston Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia will be placed on the 15 day disabled list ahead of the big series that begins on Friday with the New York Yankees.

Pedroia jammed his right thumb on Tuesday while trying to make a diving catch. Perdroia had avoided the disabled list in May with a torn abductor muscle in his right thumb.

Apparently, this injury is different from the torn muscle. surgery is not required and the Pedroia expected to return when he is first eligible. Pedroia is hitting .266/.326/.400 with six home runs, 33 RBI, six stolen bases and a .726 OPS.

Injuries to key players have haunted the Red Sox this year.

Left fielder Carl Crawford has yet to play a game and continues his rehab.

Center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury also continues his rehab. Both Crawford and Ellsbury are expected back soon after the All-Star break. the Red Sox are currently two games over 500 and in fourth place in the American League East.