Pedro

Ciriaco

If only the Red Sox had a player like Ciriaco last September. Well, no, it probably wouldn’t have made a difference. The 26-year-old Pirates castoff, who was signed to a minor league deal in January, is expected to be a part of Triple-A Pawtucket’s infield this season.

With a .415 average, a walkoff homer against the Marlins and seven steals in 41 at-bats, Ciriaco has made quite an impression on the Red Sox and now seems well positioned to claim a bench spot. He’s a long shot to have any fantasy value, but since he is a better defender than Mike Aviles, he shouldn’t be written off completely.

Ciriaco is likely to need over two weeks of recovery time. The 26-year-old infielder had a spectacular spring, but this can be considered a setback toward his goal of climbing back to the major leagues quickly.

Ciriaco was designated for assignment last week, but this move officially makes him a free agent. The 26-year-old infielder batted .303 (10-for-33) in 23 games at the major-league level this season. He’ll likely get a spring training invite somewhere.

He was cleared to make room for the newly-signed Nate McLouth on the 40-man roster. Ciriaco, 26, batted .303 (10-for-33) in 23 games at the major-league level this season. He could interest a team in need of a speedy utility-type.

Ciriaco was non-tendered by the Pirates in mid-December after appearing in only 23 major league games last season. The 26-year-old will serve as organizational infield depth for the Red Sox in 2012.

Thursday is the first day he’s eligible to return from the disabled list. Pedroia’s thumb has healed quicker than expected and he hasn’t had any discomfort since resuming batting practice late last week. Pedro Ciriaco will continue to fill in for now.

Aviles received an injection in his toe on Tuesday and said after Wednesday’s game that he feels he’s a couple of days away. The hot-hitting Pedro Ciriaco will continue to fill in at shortstop.

Ciriaco was called up from the minors last Friday and went 7-for-13 (.538) with two doubles, four RBI and two stolen bases against the Yankees. Nick Punto may also get the occasional start, but he’s likely to remain in his familiar utility role. Ciriaco is worth a look in AL-only leagues.

This will be the first time that Pedroia has started a game at DH in his career. Pedro Ciriaco will make the start at second base Thursday while Mike Aviles will play shortstop.