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| Darren McCollester/Getty Images |
The Red Sox second baseman was his typical gritty self, fending off injuries and posting impressive numbers in batting average (.290), doubles (39), and stolen bases (20). Despite his injuries, he played in 141 games. The Muddy Chicken even played the final two games of this dismal season with a broken finger—which will require surgery in the off-season. He is the de facto leader of this team and the kind of player every team wants. Pedroia joins David Ortiz (2004, 2005, 2006), Manny Ramirez (2001, 2003), Pedro Martinez (2002), Nomar Garciaparra (2000), Mike Lowell (2007), Jacoby Ellsbury (2011), Jason Bay (2009) and Clay Buchholz (2010) as FN Player Of The Year recipients. With his second win, he becomes only the third player to receive multiple honors—joining David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez. Congratulations, Dustin!