Second baseman Dustin Pedroia says: “(As position players), we play every day during the season. When you don’t get into that rhythm, it’s a little adjustment.”

The Providence Journal / Bob Breidenbach

BOSTON —Finishing with the best record in the American League gave the Red Sox the option of a seven-day schedule or an eight-day format in the Division Series.

Boston management selected the eight-day schedule, since it allows the Sox to pitch their top two starters — on regular rest — twice in the best-of-five series.

But while the extra rest may benefit the pitching staff, it creates issues for some of the position players.

The Sox had two off-days following the conclusion of the regular season before playing Game One Wednesday night. Yesterday, they were off again before the series resumes tonight.

“It’s tough,” said second baseman Dustin Pedroia. “(As position players), we play every day during the season. When you don’t get into that rhythm, it’s a little adjustment. I definitely felt it in the first at-bat (in Game One).

“It definitely benefits both pitching staffs. If our guys can get the day to recover, that’s nice.”

“It’s depends if we win Game Two,” said first baseman Kevin Youkilis. “A whole day off isn’t bad for the whole team. The biggest thing having these days off is the opportunity where Josh Beckett can come back and pitch. And if he can pitch like he did (Wednesday) night, it’ll be good to have him in Game Four.

“There’s always a positive and negative to all this,” he said. “For me, it’s not a big deal. It’s just another day hanging out in Boston and relaxing.”

Angels manager Mike Scioscia was mildly critical of the format after Game One. “I’m going to be honest with you — this is a weird setup,” said Scioscia. “And the fact that this series is a five-game series stretches out so long, we’ll see, you know, if it affects any team. It’s certainly going to let you reset your bullpen easier.”

smcadam@projo.com