I remember the trade so well. A playoff team in need of a closer surrenders two young prospects. Heathcliff Slocum to the Mariners for both Jason Varitek and Derek Lowe. Both players would grow into outstanding Major League players. When I read about the talent and potential possessed by both, all I could think of was that this was a heist. Afterall, Varitek had won college baseball's Golden Spikes award and was a switch-hitting catcher. Lowe was a sinkerballer who would eventually play a major role out of the bullpen but was so key in the 2004 playoffs as a starter.
While 'Tek was playing at AAA level, I actually saw him play in Richmond. I kept asking myself why isn't he playing with the parent club? He seemed so confident, polished, and in control behind the plate.
Over the winter '97, 'Sox signed C Jim Leyritz who eventually was displaced by the upstart 'Tek who shined coming out of Spring Training. The rest, as they say, is history.
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I watched Tek's news conference yesterday. I'll admit it, I cried like a baby! I mean, Tek cried too so I didn't consider myself crazy.
ReplyDeleteIt's hard to believe he won't be there on Opening Day this year. I know the guy's productivity went down over the last fews years, but there was something reassuring about him even if he was sitting at the top of the dugout steps.
The stinky thing about his and Wake's situations is that both guys still wanted to play, but the FO brain drain has no use for them. I'd have preferred Wake in the pen than some of the minor league-caliber misfits we've got in there now. I don't know that much about Shoppach so I'll reserve judgment until I see him play. At least Beckett's known Salty for a bit now. Which one of our guys has ever thrown to Shoppach before?? I'd suspect none. Perhaps the security blanket torch has been passed to Salty.
This retirement thing makes you wonder if Wake and Tek know how to even be retired. I mean, they've spent their whole lives playing ball and they're so used to a routine. You know you're going to get family time from (late) October to mid-February, but now these guys will be around their families constantly. I'm sure the novelty will wear off (especially for the wives) rather quickly. Both guys play golf so I imagine their golf games will improve quite a lot before too long!!!
Here's hoping the Red Sox retire #s 33 & 49. I'd like to see the same thing for #25 for Tony C. and all, but the Joker's wearing this number for the forseeable future.