We asked CSNNE.com's Red Sox insider, Sean McAdam, the same questions we're asking you in our preseason survey. Over the next few days, Sean will give his answers; see if you agree and, if you haven't already, click the link and cast your votes.
This question: Which Red Sox player will have the biggest bounceback season? Click here for his answer to today's other question: Which starter will emerge as the Red Sox 'Ace'?
The 2014 season was both the most frustrating and least productive of Dustin Pedroia's career.
After rolling his wrist in the home opener -- a scenario eerily similar to the previous season, when Pedroia incurred a nagging thumb injury in the season opener -- Pedroia was never himself.
In the field, the effect was negligible. Pedroia enjoyed one of his finest seasons, earning another Gold Glove for his play.
But at the plate, Pedroia barely resembled his former self. The ball didn't jump off his bat, and limited in his swing, he had to play through discomfort, having lost strength in his grip. Predictably, his power numbers -- doubles, homers, slugging percentage -- all dipped, most to career lows.
This spring, Pedroia has looked far more like himself. The ball has had better carry and, after a more normal offseason during which he could again lift weights, he's stronger than he was at anytime last season.
Boston Red Sox
Few players are more competitive and Pedroia seems partly motivated to silence those who viewed last year as evidence of a career in decline. "I'm back -- you'll see,'' vowed Pedroia in January.
Bet against him at your peril.
Check back tomorrow when Sean answers these two questions: 1) Who will prove to be the season's best acquisition? 2) Which offseason acquisition will prove to be the biggest bust?