Pedroia leaves Team USA to have strained muscle examined

By Tom Verduccci, SI.com

Team USA second baseman Dustin Pedroia left the team Saturday to be examined by Red Sox doctors in Fort Myers due to a strained muscle near his rib cage.

The Red Sox second baseman said he hoped to return to the American squad if doctors allow, but that Boston officials are expected to take a cautious approach.

"Hopefully this is just a couple of days," Pedroia said.

Pedroia said he felt the injury during the team's workout Friday. Mark DeRosa is the only remaining second baseman on the roster. The team is likely to add a player from the provisional roster, such as Brian Roberts of the Orioles.

** Update: MLB Network reports that Roberts has been added to the U.S. roster and will be eligible to play in the semifinal round.