AL MVP!

What a two year run for Dustin Pedroia. After nearly being benched in April 2007, with horrible stats all around, he not only regrouped, but surpassed everyone's expectations for his rookie year. The result: he was voted the 2007 AL Rookie of the Year.

So, I think we all expected a drop in production in the least, and a horrific sophomore slump at worst. But he proved us all wrong. He had a fantastic year, and his performance both on the field and at bat helped propel the Red Sox deep into the post season.

In recognition of his efforts, and for being a true spark plug on the team, the Baseball Writers of America today voted him American League Most Valuable Player! Yeah Pedie! This adds to his postseason hardware - the Silver Slugger Award and a Gold Glove.

Two great quotes from Gordon Edes on Yahoo Sports:

One of the first text messages Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia received after getting the official call Tuesday afternoon came from Boston Red Sox teammate David Ortiz.

“Congratulations, badass,” Big Papi wrote.

Short, balding and badass. That’s the look of the American League’s Most Valuable Player in 2008, and while that may not be pretty, it captures the essence of the first AL second baseman in 49 years to win the award....

“How do you not love him,” one scout said Tuesday. “He brings energy to the table, he plays with passion. Every manager in the American League will tell you they’d love to have him. He plays like a giant.”

Knowing Pedie, he will not let any of hist teammates forget this honors when he shows up for Spring Training. And I think he's more than earned bragging rights! Way to go Dustin!