KANSAS CITY -- His left rib cage/lat area still heavily bruised after getting smoked by a pitch in Houston on Sunday, Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia missed a third straight game on Wednesday against the Royals.
The club is now targeting Friday night's homestand opener against the Angels for Pedroia's return.
"He has improved," said Red Sox manager John Farrell. "Wanted to be in the lineup, but felt he needs another full day of treatment and likely again tomorrow. He'd be available only in an emergency situation here today."
Josh Rutledge again started at second in Pedroia's absence.