His offense has always been projected to be good almost anywhere. I don't know if everyone forgot the second half of 15. There is a reason why teams were asking for him this offseason and the sox wouldn't trade him.
I prefer Pedroia at lead off, good plate discipline and breaks up the righties. On a side note he also hits into a lot of double plays, can't do that leading off the game.
It was a story the beat writers could talk about for two days and get some clicks. Now that he is deemed ok look forward to him competing for the starting job. My guess with options left he will start at Pawtucket and be up in Boston by May.