* Carl Crawford has been shut down for the next 5-7 days because of inflammation in his wrist. As stated in a previous post, Crawford was trying to come back from wrist surgery by Opening Day. It seems that this won’t be happening; and currently, there is no timetable for Crawford’s return.
* I loved this exchange that Peter Abraham of The Boston Globe wrote about regarding Youkilis:
The Red Sox infielders were taking grounders on Field 2 this morning when a kid who looked to be 10 or 11 yelled out, "Hey, Youk, give me a ball."
Kevin Youkilis looked up and said, "What's the right way to ask?"
Chagrined, the kid said, "Can I please have a ball?"
Youk tossed the kid a ball.
"Don't ever forget that for the rest of your life," he said.
"Thanks," said the kid.
It’s nice to see athletes being positive role models for children.
* Carlos Silva was scratched from his start tomorrow for “shoulder inflammation” and is no longer in the running for the fifth starter position. It’s supposedly a major issue too because his long-term future is “being discussed.”
* As I’ve mentioned before, Valentine seems to have more energy on the Red Sox, which is probably a good thing. In an article in The Boston Globe this morning, it was reported that Valentine wakes up around 5:00 every morning goes on fifteen-mile bike rides before reporting to field, and allows himself one cup of coffee. My only question is HOW? I also wake up at 5:00 in the morning and drink one cup of coffee before work, but there’s no way I could do that PLUS a FIFTEEN-MILE BIKE RIDE before reporting to work. And mind you, I sit at a desk pretty much all day.
* If you have an iPhone, iPad, or Android, I highly recommend the MLB.com At Bat app. If you already have MLB.TV Premium package (which I do), the app is free; otherwise, I think it’s like $14.99 for the season. Last night, I was able to watch the game on my iPhone while on the treadmill. Today, I listened to the commentary of the game on my way back to work at lunch. There’s also news, highlight reels, Gameday action, and a ton of other information.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
"(Shipping Up To Boston) That's the Closer's Song"
For those who don’t know, I’m a big fan of Dropkick Murphys. I was able to go to one of their concerts last year in Des Moines, Iowa with my cousin, Amy. Great concert, great time. I even met my first and only Rays fan there. The reason why I like Dropkick Murphys so much is their music just seems to motivate me to get up and go, and I love the fact that they play a wide range of instruments. Seriously, guitars, drums, and basses are normal, but banjos, accordions, and bag-pipes are something special. The photo above was taken at the Dropkick Murphys’ concert last year.
Dropkick Murphys are not strangers to the Boston-sports world. Besides “Shipping Up To Boston” being played every time Papelbon took the field for a close, “Tessie” was also played during home Red Sox games. “The Warrior’s Code” was written for Mickey Ward (if you watch “The Fighter,” the live version of the song is played). “Time to Go” is about the Bruins and the fight for a Stanley Cup (written and recorded before last year’s triumphant season). Numerous Boston sports icons appear in the video for “Going Out in Style,” like Kevin Youkilis, Bobby Orr, and Mickey Ward, to name a few.
Anyway, for the past five years, Papelbon has used Dropkick Murphys’ song “Shipping Up to Boston” as his walkout music. I’ve already touched on an earlier post how Bailey’s considering Boston-based bands for his walkout music. Obviously, Papelbon can’t use “Shipping Up to Boston” in Philadelphia.
During an interview with ESPN Radio (evidently, there is such a thing. Here’s the link to the website with this article: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/thelife/music/news/story?page=120305-dropkick-murphys-papelbon ), Ken Casey, the frontman for DropkickMurphys, said the following:
He (Papelbon) can't use 'Shipping Up To Boston.’ That's a Boston song. One of the Philadelphia radio guys suggested 'Johnny I Hardly Knew Ya.’ And I have to get with the new Sox closer [Andrew Bailey] to let him know he can use 'Shipping Up To Boston.’ That's not Pap's song. That's the closer's song.
A set closer’s song? For some reason, I kind of like that idea. Of course, it would be up to the closer whether or not to use the song, but I like the idea of “Shipping Up To Boston” being the Red Sox closer song, no matter who’s closing. It might be too soon after Papelbon’s departure to actually use the song because let’s face it, Papelbon made the song his:
Who could ever forget the infamous “Irish Jig” dance? Plus, there’s the fact that he did it after winning the World Series. In fact, I recall watching a NESN program where they interviewed random people on the Boston streets and asked them to do “The Papelbon.” It was hilarious!
So, we’ll see if Ken Casey persuades Andrew Bailey to use “Shipping Up To Boston” as the official closer song, or maybe another Dropkick Murphy song. Again, I kind of like the idea of having the song an official Red Sox song. Plus, it’ll give the Fenway workers running the sound one less thing to worry about during games.
Monday, March 5, 2012
4 In '04
These days, I feel like I’m surrounded by more Cardinals fans than Cubs fans. I don’t know if Cards fans remain dormant until their team does well or if there’s an abundance of “front runners” living in my hometown. But, either way, Cardinals fans are a plenty.
One of the guys I work with is a Cardinals fan, and he is one of those Cardinals fan who enjoys the team year in and year out. Last year, around mid-September, I made a wild prediction to him. I said the Cardinals will make the playoffs and the Red Sox will not, which happened. When the playoffs started, I told him the Cardinals will win the World Series, and he didn’t believe me. Well, I was right again.
My co-worker isn’t one of those people who rubs wins/losses in other people’s faces, which is nice. We, as well as our boss who used to be a Cubs fan and is now claiming the Pirates are his team to watch, have nice, intellectual conversations about baseball. We discuss teams, players, politics, games, etc. It’s great.
However, every now and then the term “4 in ‘04” comes out… and it’s not usually from me. We’ll talk about the 2004 World Series and how that term, “4 in ‘04” means something different to either of us (me being the Red Sox won the World Series in four games, he being the Cards were swept in four games). It’s all about momentum, really.
The Sox had the momentum in 2004; the Cards had the momentum in 2011. Late last week, I changed my background desktop on my work computer to the following picture:
This picture was to commemorate Varitek. For the record, I have also used this picture as a background as well:
Well, my co-worker saw my desktop today and quietly said “4 in ’04.” For me, the picture makes me smile. The Sox finally won the World Series, Varitek became Captain shortly afterwards, and Arroyo had cornrows. I might switch my background from time to time; but for the moment, it’s going to be this shot of the 2004 World Series Champion Boston Red Sox.
One of the guys I work with is a Cardinals fan, and he is one of those Cardinals fan who enjoys the team year in and year out. Last year, around mid-September, I made a wild prediction to him. I said the Cardinals will make the playoffs and the Red Sox will not, which happened. When the playoffs started, I told him the Cardinals will win the World Series, and he didn’t believe me. Well, I was right again.
My co-worker isn’t one of those people who rubs wins/losses in other people’s faces, which is nice. We, as well as our boss who used to be a Cubs fan and is now claiming the Pirates are his team to watch, have nice, intellectual conversations about baseball. We discuss teams, players, politics, games, etc. It’s great.
However, every now and then the term “4 in ‘04” comes out… and it’s not usually from me. We’ll talk about the 2004 World Series and how that term, “4 in ‘04” means something different to either of us (me being the Red Sox won the World Series in four games, he being the Cards were swept in four games). It’s all about momentum, really.
The Sox had the momentum in 2004; the Cards had the momentum in 2011. Late last week, I changed my background desktop on my work computer to the following picture:
This picture was to commemorate Varitek. For the record, I have also used this picture as a background as well:
Well, my co-worker saw my desktop today and quietly said “4 in ’04.” For me, the picture makes me smile. The Sox finally won the World Series, Varitek became Captain shortly afterwards, and Arroyo had cornrows. I might switch my background from time to time; but for the moment, it’s going to be this shot of the 2004 World Series Champion Boston Red Sox.
Starting to Turn a Corner
Yesterday, I was able to watch my first Spring Training game of the season (for the record, the Sox had only played one “B” game last week and two exhibition games on Saturday). The Red Sox played the Twins yesterday in the first of six games against their “Mayors Cup” rival. While we had snow on the ground in Iowa, it looked warms and pleasant at JetBlue Ballpark (aka “Fenway South.”)
For the past three years, it seems like whenever the Red Sox are done playing (in the past three years, it’s after game 162, no playoffs), I need a little time to unwind from the baseball stuff. Typically, I’m frustrated by how the Sox have finished the season, especially last year. For the record, I went to bed during the rain delay in the on the final night of the regular season only to be woken up by my brother telling me the Red Sox lost and the Rays won.
With all the drama that happened at the end of the Red Sox’s season last year, I really wanted to put baseball behind me for a bit. I couldn’t, however, because Epstein skipped town to the Cubs and left behind him a mess that desperately needed to be cleaned up.
This was really hard to take because for years, I always thought Epstein would remain with the Red Sox because of the loyalty he felt for the team. After all, Epstein grew up a Red Sox fan and dreamed of working for the team.
My youngest brother’s favorite part of baseball is the offseason, and I’m pretty sure he would be a good general manager, if he ever desired to pursue that career. This offseason was a little atypical for the Red Sox though because they didn’t go after any of the “premiere” free-agents like Prince Fielder, Albert Pujols, or even Jonathan Papelbon. The Red Sox spent money last offseason; but this offseason, it seemed they were concentrated on doing smaller moves, like the trades for Melancon and Bailey.
Anyway, back to the game yesterday. As I watched the Red Sox play yesterday, I got this strange, unknown feeling. For years, the Red Sox pretty much had their rosters set before Spring Training started; this year, not necessarily the case.
Cody Ross hit two home runs in an exhibition game Saturday; one of those home runs was a grand slam. He would seem like the right fit for Right Field, but there’s talk of Ryan Sweeney and him platooning in the position this year. Hopefully, Sweeney plays today (line-ups have not been confirmed at the time of writing this post). It’s been said the Red Sox are trying to work on Sweeney’s power numbers, and I’m interested to see what he has going for him.
Lars Anderson, the former number one prospect for the Red Sox, also hit a grand slam yesterday against the Twins. From reports I’ve read so far this Spring Training, Anderson is starting to live up to his hype. Granted, it’s too early to say, but it is exciting to see that he’s doing well so far.
Where the “unknown” for Anderson lies is what the Red Sox are going to do with him? Anderson plays first base; the Red Sox have a great first baseman in Gonzalez and a very good backup first baseman in Youkilis. Does this mean Anderson is “trade bait?” If so, how much could someone like Anderson bring in? Also, it seems like so many teams have that power bat at first base (i.e. Pujols, Fielder, Votto, Texiera, etc.).
The situation at shortstop is interesting too. It’s been said countless times that Iglesias has the defense down but needs to get his offensive number up. Both Iglesias and Aviles seem to be swinging a hot bat so far (again, it’s really too early to tell but interesting to think about). Punto will most likely be utility man, but who would the Red Sox rather have at short? Iglesias or Aviles?
The fifth starter is also interesting to think about. Vincent Padilla’s stuff is said to be “nasty” (for those who aren’t keen on pitching terminology, “nasty” is a good thing). He’s going to pitch tonight versus the Twins, and I really can’t wait to see what he has. There’s still Aceves to think about as well, and MLB Trade Rumors is saying that the Red Sox are still pursuing Oswalt. All of this is really interesting, especially given the fact that Matsuzaka is throwing really well while rehabbing from Tommy John surgery and trying to get back to the Majors in June.
So, the “turning the corner” is really referencing me and the excitement I’m feeling about the season. I’m excited to see what this team really has and how Valentine is going to do as a manager (notice, I didn’t even reference Valentine in this post though I could go on about how impressed I am with him this Spring Training as well). I’m “turning the corner” to embrace this team that I once thought had more questions than answers because really, maybe having so many questions is a good thing for this team.
For the past three years, it seems like whenever the Red Sox are done playing (in the past three years, it’s after game 162, no playoffs), I need a little time to unwind from the baseball stuff. Typically, I’m frustrated by how the Sox have finished the season, especially last year. For the record, I went to bed during the rain delay in the on the final night of the regular season only to be woken up by my brother telling me the Red Sox lost and the Rays won.
With all the drama that happened at the end of the Red Sox’s season last year, I really wanted to put baseball behind me for a bit. I couldn’t, however, because Epstein skipped town to the Cubs and left behind him a mess that desperately needed to be cleaned up.
This was really hard to take because for years, I always thought Epstein would remain with the Red Sox because of the loyalty he felt for the team. After all, Epstein grew up a Red Sox fan and dreamed of working for the team.
My youngest brother’s favorite part of baseball is the offseason, and I’m pretty sure he would be a good general manager, if he ever desired to pursue that career. This offseason was a little atypical for the Red Sox though because they didn’t go after any of the “premiere” free-agents like Prince Fielder, Albert Pujols, or even Jonathan Papelbon. The Red Sox spent money last offseason; but this offseason, it seemed they were concentrated on doing smaller moves, like the trades for Melancon and Bailey.
Anyway, back to the game yesterday. As I watched the Red Sox play yesterday, I got this strange, unknown feeling. For years, the Red Sox pretty much had their rosters set before Spring Training started; this year, not necessarily the case.
Cody Ross hit two home runs in an exhibition game Saturday; one of those home runs was a grand slam. He would seem like the right fit for Right Field, but there’s talk of Ryan Sweeney and him platooning in the position this year. Hopefully, Sweeney plays today (line-ups have not been confirmed at the time of writing this post). It’s been said the Red Sox are trying to work on Sweeney’s power numbers, and I’m interested to see what he has going for him.
Lars Anderson, the former number one prospect for the Red Sox, also hit a grand slam yesterday against the Twins. From reports I’ve read so far this Spring Training, Anderson is starting to live up to his hype. Granted, it’s too early to say, but it is exciting to see that he’s doing well so far.
Where the “unknown” for Anderson lies is what the Red Sox are going to do with him? Anderson plays first base; the Red Sox have a great first baseman in Gonzalez and a very good backup first baseman in Youkilis. Does this mean Anderson is “trade bait?” If so, how much could someone like Anderson bring in? Also, it seems like so many teams have that power bat at first base (i.e. Pujols, Fielder, Votto, Texiera, etc.).
The situation at shortstop is interesting too. It’s been said countless times that Iglesias has the defense down but needs to get his offensive number up. Both Iglesias and Aviles seem to be swinging a hot bat so far (again, it’s really too early to tell but interesting to think about). Punto will most likely be utility man, but who would the Red Sox rather have at short? Iglesias or Aviles?
The fifth starter is also interesting to think about. Vincent Padilla’s stuff is said to be “nasty” (for those who aren’t keen on pitching terminology, “nasty” is a good thing). He’s going to pitch tonight versus the Twins, and I really can’t wait to see what he has. There’s still Aceves to think about as well, and MLB Trade Rumors is saying that the Red Sox are still pursuing Oswalt. All of this is really interesting, especially given the fact that Matsuzaka is throwing really well while rehabbing from Tommy John surgery and trying to get back to the Majors in June.
So, the “turning the corner” is really referencing me and the excitement I’m feeling about the season. I’m excited to see what this team really has and how Valentine is going to do as a manager (notice, I didn’t even reference Valentine in this post though I could go on about how impressed I am with him this Spring Training as well). I’m “turning the corner” to embrace this team that I once thought had more questions than answers because really, maybe having so many questions is a good thing for this team.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
What We Have to Go Through In Order to Watch the Red Sox
I think I've mentioned it in the past, but in order for people in the Midwest to watch most Red Sox games, they have to purchase either MLB.TV or MLB Extra Innings. MLB.TV runs on a computer, iPhone, iPad, XBox, Playstation 3, etc. MLB Extra Innings is through DirecTV. Either one costs money.
Two years ago when Extra Innings was being advertisded on the MLBNetwork, I thought of a better solution than paying all the money for every game (within blackout conditions); I would just buy the NESN channel. Unfortunately, that didn't work. Every program besides games was broadcasted on this channel. It was nice to get the extra information through their sports' news programs, but that's not what I thought I was getting.
I ended up purching MLB.TV. Every night, I hooked my computer up to the television, and I watched the games with the NESN commentators. My only gripe was when the Sox would play the White Sox, Twins, Royals, Cubs, Cardinals, or Brewers; those games were blacked out because of "regional coverage." For the most part, I was able to find the games against either Chicago team, but the other teams were more tricky. I ended up either listening to the games on WEEI's broadcasting and/or watching the Gameday graphics on the computer.
This year, my grandparents wanted to do the MLB.TV as well. This was going to be challenging because while they just had wireless internet put into their home, they don't own a laptop and their computer isn't in a room with a television. I knew they wouldn't be keen on watching the games on their computer. So, I was asked to get creatvie.
My youngest brother and I had a few conversations about what the grandparents actually needed. We thought about getting them a converter box (which I have to watch NetFlix), an XBox (note- games on XBox Live will not be available until March 20th), or a Blu-Ray player. The XBox was immediately eliminated because while we thought if they gave the Kinect a chance, they might actually like it, my grandparents aren't people who would actually use this device. We were now between a converter box and a Blu-Ray player.
My grandparents own a DVD player but rarely use it. They have a DirecTV receiver box as well. So, my brother, dad, and I thought a Blu-Ray player would be their best choice because it would be one less box for them to have/use. My dad and I went to Best Buy yesterday to pick one out. I won't go into too much detail here, but it was clear that one of the salesmen we talked to thought the converter box would be the best way to go while the other salesmen, who we think was the manager, thought the Blu-Ray player would be best. We went with the Blu-Ray player.
My dad and I took the Blu-Ray player over to my grandparents yesterday, and they were immediately amazed by how slim the player was (compared to their DVD player, which is now in their basement). Friday, I sent my grandma an email explaining all the features and restrictions of MLB.TV so she would be able to print it off for a reference. She seemed a bit confused.
I then explained to my grandparents that MLB's contract with their Blu-Ray player wouldn't start until mid-March, and this would be the time when they'd be able to start watching games. Of course, this confused them. I also explained that they would have to I told them my youngest brother would come by when he was on Spring Break to hook up their Blu-Ray player, register the player online, download the app, and show them how it would work. They both gave me blank stares as they said "okay."
Now, I'm sure once everything is hooked up and going, my grandparents will really like their Blu-Ray player and MLB.TV on it. My grandpa, in particular, will love watching the majority of the games this season. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that everything goes smoothly in my grandparents' transition to this new technology.
Two years ago when Extra Innings was being advertisded on the MLBNetwork, I thought of a better solution than paying all the money for every game (within blackout conditions); I would just buy the NESN channel. Unfortunately, that didn't work. Every program besides games was broadcasted on this channel. It was nice to get the extra information through their sports' news programs, but that's not what I thought I was getting.
I ended up purching MLB.TV. Every night, I hooked my computer up to the television, and I watched the games with the NESN commentators. My only gripe was when the Sox would play the White Sox, Twins, Royals, Cubs, Cardinals, or Brewers; those games were blacked out because of "regional coverage." For the most part, I was able to find the games against either Chicago team, but the other teams were more tricky. I ended up either listening to the games on WEEI's broadcasting and/or watching the Gameday graphics on the computer.
This year, my grandparents wanted to do the MLB.TV as well. This was going to be challenging because while they just had wireless internet put into their home, they don't own a laptop and their computer isn't in a room with a television. I knew they wouldn't be keen on watching the games on their computer. So, I was asked to get creatvie.
My youngest brother and I had a few conversations about what the grandparents actually needed. We thought about getting them a converter box (which I have to watch NetFlix), an XBox (note- games on XBox Live will not be available until March 20th), or a Blu-Ray player. The XBox was immediately eliminated because while we thought if they gave the Kinect a chance, they might actually like it, my grandparents aren't people who would actually use this device. We were now between a converter box and a Blu-Ray player.
My grandparents own a DVD player but rarely use it. They have a DirecTV receiver box as well. So, my brother, dad, and I thought a Blu-Ray player would be their best choice because it would be one less box for them to have/use. My dad and I went to Best Buy yesterday to pick one out. I won't go into too much detail here, but it was clear that one of the salesmen we talked to thought the converter box would be the best way to go while the other salesmen, who we think was the manager, thought the Blu-Ray player would be best. We went with the Blu-Ray player.
My dad and I took the Blu-Ray player over to my grandparents yesterday, and they were immediately amazed by how slim the player was (compared to their DVD player, which is now in their basement). Friday, I sent my grandma an email explaining all the features and restrictions of MLB.TV so she would be able to print it off for a reference. She seemed a bit confused.
I then explained to my grandparents that MLB's contract with their Blu-Ray player wouldn't start until mid-March, and this would be the time when they'd be able to start watching games. Of course, this confused them. I also explained that they would have to I told them my youngest brother would come by when he was on Spring Break to hook up their Blu-Ray player, register the player online, download the app, and show them how it would work. They both gave me blank stares as they said "okay."
Now, I'm sure once everything is hooked up and going, my grandparents will really like their Blu-Ray player and MLB.TV on it. My grandpa, in particular, will love watching the majority of the games this season. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that everything goes smoothly in my grandparents' transition to this new technology.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Thank You, Jason Varitek
Yesterday, Jason Varitek officially announced his retirement during a ceremony at JetBlue Ballpark in Ft. Myers, Florida. The ceremony took place at home plate, where Varitek had manned as a member of the Red Sox for the past fifteen years. Members of the Red Sox family (players, owners, managers, etc.) were in attendance as their captain bid adieu.
Unfortunately, I have only been able to watch part of the ceremony (I recorded MLB Network during the time the ceremony took place, but they didn’t show it….errr) and brief transcripts and reactions to it. From the part of the ceremony I was able to watch, I saw something I’ve never seen before. Jason Varitek was
tearing up.
I couldn’t help but think of a line from “Fever Pitch” where Jimmy Fallon’s character,Ben, was talking to a group of men about watching the All-Star Game in 1999. They were talking about when Ted Williams was wheeled out for the game and the crowds reaction. Ben’s words were:
“I was there. I was feet away from him… Old men crying… Tears. Tough old guys. I even started to lose it, you know.”
I know seeing Ted Williams at the All-Star Game is completely different than Jason Varitek retiring, but I had sort of the same reaction. For years, I’ve watched Jason Varitek man home plate, control the pitchers, be the “silent” leader so many people described him as. He always seem to be so “tough,” like when he got between A-Rod and Arroyo in the “incident.” He never backed down, and he always seem accountable.
Yesterday, I saw Jason Varitek tear up and wipe away tears. I had the same reaction as the movie: “… ‘old’ men crying… Tears. Tough ‘old’ guys. I even started to lose it, you know.” I have to put the term “old” in apostrophes, since Tek isn’t old by any means, though for a catcher, he was getting up there in years. I could tell that the Red Sox meant more to Varitek than just an employer or a baseball team. The Red Sox were his family.
I’ve been reading a few articles about different players, managers, and other Red Sox legends reactions to Varitek’s retirement. I thought that I would include their reactions in this piece (please note, all passages were borrowed from The Boston Globe unless otherwise noted.)
Josh Beckett: I loved working with him. I never had a catcher before that I felt like cared more about wanting me to be successful even before he wanted to be successful. He's going to be missed a lot, in the clubhouse and on the field.
Clay Buchholz: He was one of the greatest guys ever behind the plate. ... He's a guy that when you're on the mound and you shake him off, he sort of just stares at you. Especially being a young guy coming up, you're already intimidated by pitching in front of 40,000 people at Fenway then you got Jason Varitek catching you. He helped slow the game down. How to pitch to certain guys, how to get out of situations. He was a vocal part of my learning experience in baseball.
Jarrod Saltalamacchia: He meant a lot. He helped me out a lot last year. The year before he was trying to recover from injuries, so we didn't get to spend a lot of on-field time together. But still picking his brain a lot. Last year was a huge, huge help for getting my career back on track. Just the person he is, you can't find a better person.
Tim Wakefield: Tek epitomizes what a true professional should be. He's been a great teammate, but more importantly he's been a better friend. The way he prepared and led the Boston Red Sox over the last 15 years has been an inspiration to all who have watched. Although his leadership will be missed, his legacy in Red Sox history will be forged forever. It has been a true honor to have played with him for this long and I wish him nothing but the best as he starts a new chapter in his life. Congratulations Tek on an unbelievable career. I'm glad we've been able to share a lot of great memories together.
Nomar Garciaparra: Ever since I've known him, dating back to being his teammate in college, he has been a tireless worker. His preparation and endless work ethic has made him a true champion. Thanks Tek for all you have taught me.
Trot Nixon: It's tough to see Tek go. He was a class act in the clubhouse, a leader on that team. He epitomizes what a captain is all about. It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to play with him, I never saw someone worked harder. We all loved him, he was a quiet leader, but when something needed to be said he said it.
Mike Lowell: Tek was hands down one of the best teammates I ever had. I have never come across someone who would prepare for the game more thoroughly than him. His dedication to his craft, and work ethic, were always qualities that I admired, and he was a true captain in every sense of the word. I wish him nothing but the best.
Carl Yastrzemski: Congratulations to Jason Varitek on an outstanding career. As a former captain of the Red Sox, I can appreciate the way he approached the game. His leadership set a tone example for his teammates and the Red Sox organization.
Terry Francona: Tek was the captain seven out of my eight years with the Red Sox. The 'C' on his chest was just a formality, he was the leader of the team with or without it. I could say a lot of things about Tek, but the most important thing was he kept everyone going in the right direction.
Of course, there were many other people giving their reactions and admiration for Jason Varitek, but I liked these quotes for different reasons. Beckett and Buchholz were two pitchers Varitek recently had caught for, Salty saw Tek as his mentor, Wakefield had been Tek’s teammate the longest, Nomar played with Tek on the Sox and in college, Nixon and Lowell won different Championships with Tek, Yaz is a Red Sox legend and former Sox Captain himself, and Tito was Tek’s last manager.
Finally, I’m going to end this posting with some words from Varitek himself. Here is some of his memorable quotes from his ceremony yesterday:
After months of deliberating what to do, I've decided that it's best for me and family that I retire, that I retire a Red Sock. The decision to retire wasn't one that I took lightly in any sense of the word, nor did I want to do it more than once. This has probably been the most difficult decision I had to make in my career. But the opportunity to start and finish my major league career in one place is why I'm standing here today.
Being a part of the Red Sox organization of the past [15] years is something I will always cherish. I thank all of you for giving me this opportunity, because it's taken all of you to make this happen.
It's (leaving his teammates) what I'm going to miss most. The hardest thing to do is walk away from your teammates, and what they meant to you. Thank you.' Winning the World Series here is unbelievable. The uniqueness of [Jon] Lester's no- hitter. Clay's no-hitter.
What I plan on doing right now is going to a lot more soccer practices, mix in a few tennis matches for a little bit longer period of time. We're still discussing and as we continue to do this we'll hopefully find a role [where I can] stay involved.'
As I walk away from this game. I can look at the man in the mirror and be proud that I gave everything I had to this organization. And once again, I just want to say thank you.
Varitek, thank you for giving yourself selfishly to the game. You will be missed, and we hope to see you in the Red Sox organization in the future.
Unfortunately, I have only been able to watch part of the ceremony (I recorded MLB Network during the time the ceremony took place, but they didn’t show it….errr) and brief transcripts and reactions to it. From the part of the ceremony I was able to watch, I saw something I’ve never seen before. Jason Varitek was
tearing up.
I couldn’t help but think of a line from “Fever Pitch” where Jimmy Fallon’s character,Ben, was talking to a group of men about watching the All-Star Game in 1999. They were talking about when Ted Williams was wheeled out for the game and the crowds reaction. Ben’s words were:
“I was there. I was feet away from him… Old men crying… Tears. Tough old guys. I even started to lose it, you know.”
I know seeing Ted Williams at the All-Star Game is completely different than Jason Varitek retiring, but I had sort of the same reaction. For years, I’ve watched Jason Varitek man home plate, control the pitchers, be the “silent” leader so many people described him as. He always seem to be so “tough,” like when he got between A-Rod and Arroyo in the “incident.” He never backed down, and he always seem accountable.
Yesterday, I saw Jason Varitek tear up and wipe away tears. I had the same reaction as the movie: “… ‘old’ men crying… Tears. Tough ‘old’ guys. I even started to lose it, you know.” I have to put the term “old” in apostrophes, since Tek isn’t old by any means, though for a catcher, he was getting up there in years. I could tell that the Red Sox meant more to Varitek than just an employer or a baseball team. The Red Sox were his family.
I’ve been reading a few articles about different players, managers, and other Red Sox legends reactions to Varitek’s retirement. I thought that I would include their reactions in this piece (please note, all passages were borrowed from The Boston Globe unless otherwise noted.)
Josh Beckett: I loved working with him. I never had a catcher before that I felt like cared more about wanting me to be successful even before he wanted to be successful. He's going to be missed a lot, in the clubhouse and on the field.
Clay Buchholz: He was one of the greatest guys ever behind the plate. ... He's a guy that when you're on the mound and you shake him off, he sort of just stares at you. Especially being a young guy coming up, you're already intimidated by pitching in front of 40,000 people at Fenway then you got Jason Varitek catching you. He helped slow the game down. How to pitch to certain guys, how to get out of situations. He was a vocal part of my learning experience in baseball.
Jarrod Saltalamacchia: He meant a lot. He helped me out a lot last year. The year before he was trying to recover from injuries, so we didn't get to spend a lot of on-field time together. But still picking his brain a lot. Last year was a huge, huge help for getting my career back on track. Just the person he is, you can't find a better person.
Tim Wakefield: Tek epitomizes what a true professional should be. He's been a great teammate, but more importantly he's been a better friend. The way he prepared and led the Boston Red Sox over the last 15 years has been an inspiration to all who have watched. Although his leadership will be missed, his legacy in Red Sox history will be forged forever. It has been a true honor to have played with him for this long and I wish him nothing but the best as he starts a new chapter in his life. Congratulations Tek on an unbelievable career. I'm glad we've been able to share a lot of great memories together.
Nomar Garciaparra: Ever since I've known him, dating back to being his teammate in college, he has been a tireless worker. His preparation and endless work ethic has made him a true champion. Thanks Tek for all you have taught me.
Trot Nixon: It's tough to see Tek go. He was a class act in the clubhouse, a leader on that team. He epitomizes what a captain is all about. It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to play with him, I never saw someone worked harder. We all loved him, he was a quiet leader, but when something needed to be said he said it.
Mike Lowell: Tek was hands down one of the best teammates I ever had. I have never come across someone who would prepare for the game more thoroughly than him. His dedication to his craft, and work ethic, were always qualities that I admired, and he was a true captain in every sense of the word. I wish him nothing but the best.
Carl Yastrzemski: Congratulations to Jason Varitek on an outstanding career. As a former captain of the Red Sox, I can appreciate the way he approached the game. His leadership set a tone example for his teammates and the Red Sox organization.
Terry Francona: Tek was the captain seven out of my eight years with the Red Sox. The 'C' on his chest was just a formality, he was the leader of the team with or without it. I could say a lot of things about Tek, but the most important thing was he kept everyone going in the right direction.
Of course, there were many other people giving their reactions and admiration for Jason Varitek, but I liked these quotes for different reasons. Beckett and Buchholz were two pitchers Varitek recently had caught for, Salty saw Tek as his mentor, Wakefield had been Tek’s teammate the longest, Nomar played with Tek on the Sox and in college, Nixon and Lowell won different Championships with Tek, Yaz is a Red Sox legend and former Sox Captain himself, and Tito was Tek’s last manager.
Finally, I’m going to end this posting with some words from Varitek himself. Here is some of his memorable quotes from his ceremony yesterday:
After months of deliberating what to do, I've decided that it's best for me and family that I retire, that I retire a Red Sock. The decision to retire wasn't one that I took lightly in any sense of the word, nor did I want to do it more than once. This has probably been the most difficult decision I had to make in my career. But the opportunity to start and finish my major league career in one place is why I'm standing here today.
Being a part of the Red Sox organization of the past [15] years is something I will always cherish. I thank all of you for giving me this opportunity, because it's taken all of you to make this happen.
It's (leaving his teammates) what I'm going to miss most. The hardest thing to do is walk away from your teammates, and what they meant to you. Thank you.' Winning the World Series here is unbelievable. The uniqueness of [Jon] Lester's no- hitter. Clay's no-hitter.
What I plan on doing right now is going to a lot more soccer practices, mix in a few tennis matches for a little bit longer period of time. We're still discussing and as we continue to do this we'll hopefully find a role [where I can] stay involved.'
As I walk away from this game. I can look at the man in the mirror and be proud that I gave everything I had to this organization. And once again, I just want to say thank you.
Varitek, thank you for giving yourself selfishly to the game. You will be missed, and we hope to see you in the Red Sox organization in the future.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
MLB to Extend Playoffs
MLB is expected to announce the extended playoffs today. Now, there will be ten playoff teams, five in each league. By doing this, each league will have two Wildcard teams who will play each other in a one-game playoff; and then, the winner of that game will go through the typical Divisional Series.
If this was in effect last year, the Red Sox would’ve made the playoffs. Would they have done well in the playoffs? I would have to think no based off how they played in September. But, the fact remains they would’ve made the playoffs.
If the Red Sox would have made the playoffs last year, I’m sure “chicken and beer-gate” would not have been so prevalent. Francona might still be manager. Papelbon may not have left for the Phillies (so quickly, anyway). Other players, like Oswalt and Jackson, may have signed with the Red Sox instead of going their own ways. Of course, all of this is speculation.
I really think that the extended playoffs is good for the game. Baseball is definitely more exciting when a single game means everything (Game 7 of this past World Series was a must-see). Plus, having the Wildcard teams play each other in a single game makes the game more strategic. With the one-game playoff, a team has to decide whether or not to pitch their Ace for that game, or hope they can win with another pitcher, then start their Ace in the Divisional Series. (Of course, if a team makes the playoffs, you would hope they have multiple “Aces.”)
Plus, the fact that this is a one-game, Wildcard playoff, it doesn’t take away the whole effect of the way that MLB structures their playoffs. The best teams are still going to get in. It’s not like the NHL or NBA where close to if not half the teams make it to the playoffs, and the playoffs can last around two months. (The NFL isn’t as bad since they play one game per round). Baseball will always have October.
There’ll be more press about this after the official announcement is made, and I know some people are going to be complaining that three teams in one division could make the playoffs. Personally, I think that’s a good thing. It’s built-in drama. Would you rather watch the Braves and Nationals play each other in the Wildcard playoff or the Braves and Diamondbacks? Would you rather watch the Yankees and Rays battle it out (because let’s face it, this is a Red Sox website, and I want them to win the division) or the Yankees and Angels?
Extended playoffs are a good thing for baseball, especially the way this is designed. If you think about it, this pretty much happened last year anyway. The wildcard teams came down to game 162. It was either win or go home for both the American and National Leagues.
If this was in effect last year, the Red Sox would’ve made the playoffs. Would they have done well in the playoffs? I would have to think no based off how they played in September. But, the fact remains they would’ve made the playoffs.
If the Red Sox would have made the playoffs last year, I’m sure “chicken and beer-gate” would not have been so prevalent. Francona might still be manager. Papelbon may not have left for the Phillies (so quickly, anyway). Other players, like Oswalt and Jackson, may have signed with the Red Sox instead of going their own ways. Of course, all of this is speculation.
I really think that the extended playoffs is good for the game. Baseball is definitely more exciting when a single game means everything (Game 7 of this past World Series was a must-see). Plus, having the Wildcard teams play each other in a single game makes the game more strategic. With the one-game playoff, a team has to decide whether or not to pitch their Ace for that game, or hope they can win with another pitcher, then start their Ace in the Divisional Series. (Of course, if a team makes the playoffs, you would hope they have multiple “Aces.”)
Plus, the fact that this is a one-game, Wildcard playoff, it doesn’t take away the whole effect of the way that MLB structures their playoffs. The best teams are still going to get in. It’s not like the NHL or NBA where close to if not half the teams make it to the playoffs, and the playoffs can last around two months. (The NFL isn’t as bad since they play one game per round). Baseball will always have October.
There’ll be more press about this after the official announcement is made, and I know some people are going to be complaining that three teams in one division could make the playoffs. Personally, I think that’s a good thing. It’s built-in drama. Would you rather watch the Braves and Nationals play each other in the Wildcard playoff or the Braves and Diamondbacks? Would you rather watch the Yankees and Rays battle it out (because let’s face it, this is a Red Sox website, and I want them to win the division) or the Yankees and Angels?
Extended playoffs are a good thing for baseball, especially the way this is designed. If you think about it, this pretty much happened last year anyway. The wildcard teams came down to game 162. It was either win or go home for both the American and National Leagues.
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