FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia, who left Thursday night's game against the New York Yankees after being struck on the left forearm by a pitch, reported that he was "fine" Friday morning and anticipated returning to the lineup Saturday.
"I took a check swing," recounted Pedroia. "I just tried to get out of the way. It was a sinker in, so it started in. I committed and then I just tried to get out of the way."
Pedroia said he "probably" would have remained in the game had it been the regular season, but manager Bobby Valentine thought it best to be cautious.
Pedroia underwent x-rays, which proved negative.
He planned to take some batting practice Friday morning, "see how it feels and try to play tomorrow.
"It's sore, but it's just like a bruise," said Pedroia. "I'll take some swings and try to get to loose. It's no big deal. I lucked out."