Pedroia swings bat for 1st time since injury

Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia took batting practice before Saturday's game against the Blue Jays. This is the first time he's swung a bat since slightly tearing a muscle in his right thumb five days ago.

Pedroia took about 25 swings over four sessions. When he was done, the 2008 AL MVP pulled off his gloves and spoke briefly with Red Sox trainer Rick Jameyson.

Manager Bobby Valentine said the team hopes to avoid putting Pedroia on the disabled list. The team will monitor any pain or swelling in the thumb resulting from Saturday's session. His status will be reevaluated after the weekend.

Pedroia is hitting .295 with five homers and 21 RBIs.