I'm surprised that he waited until now to make this decision. Then again, this is the guy that accepted a gaudy "C" on his jersey when named a Team Captain. This is the same guy who continued to wear that "C" even as he became a part-time player.
Overall, I've liked Jason Varitek's tenure with the Sox. He was an important part to the team's two World Series wins. And he was very good at getting the best out of a pitching staff.
But he was also one of the most overrated, overhyped athletes in Boston. And that's saying something. He was good. Not great. At his best he was very good and he had occasional great moments. 7 RBI in the 2004 ALCS. Three All-Star Games. A Gold Glove. A Silver Slugger.
If the Red Sox had a different catcher in 2004 and 2007, I don't think they win those World Series. Even if they plugged in a "better" catcher.
But great? Sorry. He got too much credit for pitcher's successes, never any blame for their struggles. He got too much credit for being a good Captain, never any blame when teams have disintegrated.
The guy was important to this team. That was the past, though. I'm very glad he's retiring because his prime was 2004 and 2005.
I can't say I'll miss him. He had plenty of time here, and he got plenty of spotlight time too. But if he retired in 2004, I would have missed him then.
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