Born to Play: My Life in the Game - Couverture souple

The inspirational story of Boston Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia—a giant talent in a small package—who defied his critics to become one of the greatest players in the game today.

Dustin Pedroia, at five feet seven inches and 170 pounds, is not the biggest, the strongest, or the fastest player in the game of baseball, but in just two years of major-league play he was named Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player, and helped the Boston Red Sox win a World Championship. At a time when steroid scandals dominate media coverage of America’s beloved pastime, Pedroia has proven to the world that a good baseball player is more than size and statistics. His success comes from the heart.

In Born to Play, Pedroia shares the story of his difficult and uplifting journey to prove himself at every turn. More than anything, his love of the game and desire to win, not just for himself but for his teammates, defines Pedroia as an athlete—but his dedication, his perseverance, and of course, his monster swing have made him a beloved new symbol of baseball and offer hope for the future of America’s favorite game.

During his brief career in the majors, Dustin Pedroia has already won several awards including being named the 2007 American League Rookie of the Year and the 2008 American League MVP.  Pedroia ended the 2008 season with a .326 average with 17 home runs, 83 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases. He was tied for the MLB in hits with 213 and led the league in doubles (54), while leading the AL in runs scored (118).  In December 2008, Pedroia signed a six-year contract extension with the Red Sox.