Farewell to the Captain

Today, all that matters in Red Sox Nation is that Jason Varitek will announce his retirement.

After coming to Boston from Seattle, along with Derek Lowe, for Heathcliff Slocumb at the trade deadline in 1997 in one of the most lopsided trades in baseball history, Varitek became a cornerstone of the revival of the Red Sox and helped set the path for the World Series championship teams of 2004 and 2007.

The most famous moment for 'Tek in a Red Sox uniform is pictured above.  During the Red Sox-Yankees game on July 24, 2004, Varitek came to the defense of pitcher Bronson Arroyo and went after Alex Rodriguez.  The brawl was a part of a big comeback win (Bill Mueller's two-run homerun of Mariano Rivera won the game in the 9th) and got the Red Sox rolling on their way to the franchise's first World Series title in 86 years.

Although Varitek will never have his day at Cooperstown, he will be remembered by all true Red Sox fans for the excellent work he did over the years behind the plate and for his leadership.  He truly was a great player for the Boston Red Sox.