Tampa Bay 1st baseman Carlos Pena replaces Boston 2nd baseman Dustin Pedroia on AL squad

Pena replaces Pedroia on AL All-Star team

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Tampa Bay first baseman Carlos Pena will replace Boston second baseman Dustin Pedroia on the American League roster for Tuesday’s game All-Star game.

Pedroia’s wife, Kelli, is seven months pregnant and been in the hospital since Monday with complications.

“I am disappointed that I will not be able to enjoy the amazing experience with the other All-Stars, especially with my Red Sox teammates, but it is important that I put my family first at this time,” Pedroia said in a statement Sunday.

Pena leads the AL with 24 homers and will take part in the home run derby leading to the game in St. Louis.

Pena was added to the squad by AL manager Joe Maddon of the Rays. The decision means all four of Tampa Bay’s starting infielders will be on the team.