From the January 30, 2006 issue of Sports Illustrated:

Boston’s blueprint now includes signing free-agent shortstop Alex Gonzalez to a one-year deal as insurance until sure-handed rookie Dustin Pedroia, 22, is ready to take over the job…

I grew up with Dustin’s older brother, Brett, in Woodland.  We played baseball together for many years, from Little League all the way up through high school.  As long as I can remember, Dustin was a little stud kid hanging around his older brother, soaking up baseball knowledge like a sponge.  He had a stellar career at Arizona State, and his ascension through the ranks of the minor leagues can best be described as rapid. 

Only time will tell, but here’s to hoping that a Woodlander finally makes it to the Big Leagues — and is able to stay there.

Update: Exhibit A – a Woodlander who has yet to find a permanent place in the Bigs

“It’s just getting the opportunity,” [Tony Torcato] says. “Man, I don’t understand. It’s politics and everything mixed together. You can be better at your position but they’ll play somebody else because they like him better.”

When you don’t have Barry Bonds-like talent, criticizing your former organization is not a good way to attract the attention of another organization, especially if you’re unwilling to play in the minors.