Sox keeping options open on Pedroia's return

BOSTON -- Dustin Pedroia took batting practice for the second straight day, and the Red Sox haven't ruled him out for a return against the Yankees next weekend.

However, the club could also take a more conservative course of action and have the invaluable second baseman come back after the All-Star break.

Pedroia, who is out with a right hamstring strain, is eligible to return from the disabled list on Friday.

"Yesterday was a good day for him where the intensity to his running started to increase more. We'll get a clearer view on this as we get through to the Miami series," said manager John Farrell. "What we're going to come down to is what's the risk/reward for activating him for the final series this week, on this homestand, or do we take advantage of those four days? The next four days will give us more clarity to that."