More photos » Elise Amendola - AP

10 months ago: Boston Red Sox's Dustin Pedroia runs after hitting a double off Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Scott Kazmir during the third inning of a baseball game at Fenway Park in Boston, Wednesday, April 8, 2009. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

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In an incredibly slow period for news, we turn our attention to Major League Baseball, the national pastime. Our former Sun Devils have turned out in strong numbers in MLB, so lets see how they are doing in the young 2009 season.

Our school has made a strong impact in recent years, culminating in the 2008 draft, where 15 of our players were drafted by MLB clubs. This included Brett Wallace and Ike Davis, two first round picks in the minors for the Mets and Cardinals.

But back on topic, with our MLB stars in full focus.

Naturally, we will start with Dustin Pedroia.

Pedroia's 2009 statistics:

Last season's AL MVP is currently working his way out of a sluggish start. He had been batting .235 through April 19th, but a 4/6 day against Baltimore on April 20th shot his average right back up there.

Considering he hit .326 with 20 stolen bases in 2008, it's only a matter of time before he is fully revived. Truly the crown jewel of ASU alumni.

Moving on to Jeff Larish.

Larish hasn't earned a hit since April 10th, and his falling average is indicative of the lack of playing time available in Detroit. With Carlos Guillen, Miguel Cabrera, and Brandon Inge all playing corner infield slots recently, Larish has been left on the bench.

Now, Travis Buck.

This guy can hit, but where is the production? The jury is still out.

Lets see what Andre Ethier has been up to lately.

Such a solid player. If his power ever came through, he'd be an amazing talent. After hitting 20 last year (and 4 already in 2009), this just might be his breakout season.

Ian Kinsler. Technically an alumni, lets see how he is playing in Arlington.

He's on FIRE.

Willie Bloomquist. Our favorite overpaid utility man, now located in Kansas City.

Looks about right.

Finally, Don Wakamatsu. The manager of the Seattle Mariners.

With a 2.5 game lead in the AL West, Wakamatsu must be happy with the initial success of his team. Keep it up, Don!

That's all for now, folks. Keep checking us out.