December 4, 2008 Raw video: Theo Epstein, Dustin Pedroia announce 6-year deal Play video

(NECN: Boston) - On the field - he's not afraid of anything. But Boston Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia has decide to trade in a chance to cash in for a little sense of security. Pedroia and Red Sox General Manager Theo Epstein today annouced Pedroia has signed a 6-year contract with a club option for the 2015. The deal is reportedly for $40.5 million over six seasons.

At the news conference, Pedroia acknowledged the trade-off, but said there would be no second-guessing from the second baseman. "I play for the best team in the major leagues, I mean, who wouldn't want to play for the Boston Red Sox?" Pedroia said.

Asked about the sacrifice, Pedroia continued. "I understand all that stuff. I know that if I had gone year-to-year, yes, that I probably would have made more money," he said. "I understand that. But I'm here at a place that I love."

Epstein said the decision for the Sox brass from a financial and performance standpoint was an easy one. "Offensively, what he has accomplished speaks for itself, but definitely he has made an unbelievable transition from shortstop to second base, and we think he is one of the best defensive second basemen in the league."

"What's not to like about this guy?" he added. "If we had 25 guys like this, we'd be in good shape."

Espstein also suggested there may be some more long-term signings coming in the offseason.