Boston's Pedroia denies reports of Valentine rift

Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia denied reports of a rift between the players and under-fire manager Bobby Valentine, insisting that he and his teammates were to blame for Boston's disappointing season.

Despite boasting one of the highest payrolls in the league, the Red Sox have failed to spark this season and with a 57-60 record, find themselves languishing 12 1/2 games behind bitter rivals and AL East leaders the New York Yankees.

The 62-year-old Valentine has been under immense pressure in his first season at the club due to Boston's poor form, leading to reports that several players had complained about his leadership at a meeting with team owners last month.