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.