Dustin Pedroia #15 of the Boston Red Sox heads back to the dugout after striking out in the ninth inning against the New York Yankees on April 21, 2012 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. The New York Yankees defeated the Boston Red Sox 15-9. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

BOSTON (CBS) As the Boston Red Sox prepared to leave Toronto after taking two-of-three from the Blue Jays over the weekend, Dustin Pedroia had one thing on his mind.

Play Tuesday, Pedroia told the teams website Sunday afternoon.

Out for the last week with a tornabductormuscle in his right thumb, Pedroia was able to avoid a trip to the disabled list and is primed for a return. He resumed batting practice on Saturday, with the help of a special brace over his hand, and felt no discomfort or swelling on Sunday.

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Now the Red Sox second baseman hopes to return Tuesday when they open a three-game series with the Baltimore Orioles in Boston.

When asked if the team had said he was good to go, Pedroia gave his usual Pedroia-like response.

They dont tell me anything, man. I play Tuesday, he told the Boston Herald.

Pedroia was nearly called upon over the weekend in Toronto, after short stop Mike Aviles was hit in the hand by a grounder during Bostons 7-4 win on Saturday. Manager Bobby Valentine said he was ready to put Pedroia in the game, as the team had no other infielders available on the bench.

But Aviles was able to remain in the game, and Pedroia glove in hand stayed on the bench.

Read more here:

Red Sox’ Pedroia Ready To Play Tuesday