Pedroia, the pride of ASU, has become the first 2B to win the award in over 50 years. The little man led a depleted Boston squad (no Manny after the trade, Ortiz injured...) deep into the playoffs, and within a game of the World Series.

He beat out Justin Morneau of the twins by 60 points in the voting.

His 2008 MVP stat line:

157 games played
653 At-Bats
118 runs
213 hits
54 doubles
2 triples
17 home runs
83 runs batted in
50 walks
52 strike-outs
20 stolen bases
1 caught stealing
.326 average
.376 on-base percentage
.493 slugging percentage
.869 on-base plus slugging

C.W.'s note: This guy was a beast at 2B. It's difficult to say that anyone else held more value for their team in the American League this past season.