 It is a cold bitter fact, when things fall apart, somebody has to pay. Someone has to be the sacrificial lamb. That is the story of Jason Varitek's retirement.
After last season's dramatic collapse, the brain trust on Yawkey Way called for the Skipper and Captain's heads. Things had to change, they boasted. Fried chicken & beer no more! Instead uncle Bobby V is here to give the team snack time, & arts & crafts. The Sox brought in veteran manager Bobby Valentine to instill some discipline & get the team back to the basics. Most will agree it is time for a change at the helm, (that's a whole different blog) but why sacrifice behind the plate? It is true Varitek's offensive numbers have slipped. However as a part time player his power, especially at clutch times has come in handy. Not to mention the real reason Boston should have retained the veteran catcher. His replacements. Both will not be employed in Boston in a year I guarantee and neither have half the skill or patience to work with the pitching staff in the way Varitek did. Just ask Josh Beckett if the man flashing the signs makes a difference. The Red Sox on paper have put together one of their worst pitching staffs in awhile. Couldn't a veteran catcher known for his ability to get the most out of every arm help? Sure his overall ability to captain a team may come into question, but all you need him to do is catch every 3rd or fourth day. The knowledge and know-how possessed by this man is second to none. The Sox just let that "know-how" retire, and walk off into the sunset... A move they may soon regret. -Pal |
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