Rookie Infielder Caleb Durbin Aims to Follow in Pedroia's Footsteps

New Red Sox player models game after Boston legend

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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New Boston Red Sox infielder Caleb Durbin said he models his game after Red Sox great Dustin Pedroia, who was one of Durbin's favorite players growing up. Durbin, 25, had a successful rookie season with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2025, batting .256 with 11 home runs and 53 RBIs. He is now looking to make a similar impact with the Red Sox.

Why it matters

Pedroia was a fan favorite in Boston and a key part of the Red Sox's 2007 and 2013 World Series championship teams. If Durbin can follow in his footsteps, it could be a major boost for the Red Sox as they look to return to the playoffs.

The details

Durbin, who was drafted by the Brewers in 2021, made his MLB debut on April 18, 2025 and quickly established himself as a regular, appearing in 136 games. He batted .256 with a .334 on-base percentage and .387 slugging percentage, collecting 114 hits, including 25 doubles and 11 home runs. Durbin also stole 18 bases and played solid defense at third base, earning 2.6 fWAR and finishing third in National League Rookie of the Year voting.

  • Durbin made his MLB debut on April 18, 2025.
  • Durbin underwent arthroscopic elbow surgery in late October 2025.

The players

Caleb Durbin

A 25-year-old infielder who was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2021 and had a successful rookie season in 2025 before being traded to the Boston Red Sox.

Dustin Pedroia

A former Red Sox second baseman who was a key part of the team's 2007 and 2013 World Series championship teams and is considered a Red Sox legend.

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What they’re saying

“He was definitely one of my favorite players growing up. A guy I definitely try to model my game around. Obviously long way to go, but he was a dude that I really enjoyed watching.”

— Caleb Durbin (Yahoo Sports)

The takeaway

Durbin's admiration for Pedroia and desire to emulate his style of play could pay dividends for the Red Sox as they look to rebuild and return to contention. If Durbin can develop into a similar type of player - a gritty, hard-nosed infielder with strong offensive and defensive skills - he could become a fan favorite in Boston and help the team get back to the playoffs.