Quite A Collection!

November 8, 2009

Fan Penny Linville emailed me about a month ago to ask a question about Jason's 2009 Memorial Day gear:

"First off, let me thank you for such a wonderful and positive site on Mr. Varitek. I have discovered you just don't miss anything in this man's career. Your site has been most helpful to me in so many ways I am not sure I can name them all. I hope you won't mind answering a question if you know, and I believe if anyone does you will."

With the help of Stan Jurga Jr. of All-Star Sports, we were able to answer her question, and now Penny is the proud owner of Jason's 2009 game-used Memorial Day gear by way of a secondary seller.

This week, Penny sent me several photos of her growing collection of game-used Tek gear (along with info on the items and how she became interested in collecting).

You can check 'em out here.

*Penny, thank you so much for your email and for sharing your photos!

"A Win For Both Sides"

November 6, 2009

From an article written by NESN's Michael Hurley today:

Since the late '90s, the Red Sox have welcomed their fair share of characters through the doors on Yawkey Way. Pedro Martinez, Manny Ramirez, Kevin Millar, Orlando Cabrera, Johnny Damon, Carl Everett and Ugueth Urbina -- to name a few -- provided the spark and excitement that a team needs on occasion.

But standing out among the rest has been Jason Varitek, Boston's model of consistency on the field and in the clubhouse. When the Red Sox sewed the "C" on the catcher's jersey, the organization showed how far it was willing to go to show Varitek the appreciation he deserved.

The Red Sox hold a $5 million option on Varitek for 2010, one they're almost certain not to exercise after the catcher hit just .209 in 2009. Varitek, though, holds a $3 million option to stay with the Red Sox, one that would be a win for both sides if he chooses to exercise it.

Varitek's biggest problem in 2009 was that the Red Sox needed him to be more than he was. They needed Varitek to be 32 years old again.

In 2010, however, with Mike Lowell needing much less time off than he did last year, Victor Martinez will be able to spend the bulk of the season behind the plate. That will allow Varitek to play once or twice a week at most, and in turn will allow Lowell, Martinez and Kevin Youkilis to each take a breather every 10 games or so.

Ideally, if Varitek played only after several days of rest, he'd be much more productive, and he'd be as good a backup as there is in the major leagues.

Of course, that reason alone isn't necessarily enough to re-sign a veteran catcher. But that's where Varitek's leadership -- both in the clubhouse and in the bullpen -- comes in to play.

Realistically, having Jason Varitek in the clubhouse won't inspire Dustin Pedroia to get more hits, nor will it motivate Jacoby Ellsbury to swipe an extra bag or two. Varitek's presence will, however, help a pitching staff that still includes a number of young arms. Varitek himself seemed to admit that he wasn't the same player before this year's postseason began, yet he remained confident in his ability to help the ballclub.

"It's different, but the fact of the matter is that we need to put our best lineup out there," Varitek said in early October. “I have one job to do -- support my teammates and be prepared if the bell rings. ... You can't control your playing time, but you can control the other parts of what you can contribute. It may not be by playing. It may be by being on the bench.

"There are things you see," he said. "Things you can offer."

Those "things" cannot be easily described. They're the types of "things" that only a 12-year veteran who has spent 11,316 innings behind the plate and has stepped in for 4,765 at-bats in the bigs can bring. They're the type of things that help a ballclub win.

The Red Sox can win without Varitek, but they're a better team with him on board. For $3 million, it's a no-brainer.

To read Mr. Hurley's complete article, click here.

From Ian Browne's Mailbag Today...

November 2, 2009

Red Sox Beat Reporter Ian Browne answered a couple of fan questions about Tek:

On the Captain's return -

"Regarding Varitek, the Red Sox are unlikely to pick up the $5 million club option they have on the captain for next season. That said, Varitek has his own option worth $3 million that he can exercise if he chooses. The decision Varitek has to make is whether he wants to kick in that option and be a backup player for a team he has been the leader of for several years, or if he'd rather finish his career somewhere else. The other decision Varitek could always make is to retire. Stay tuned."

On Tek becoming the Sox bench coach in 2010 -

"That is one of those rumors that seemed to take on a life of its own from the day Brad Mills got his job as manager of the Astros. Down the line, I could see something like that. But not in 2010. It is usually beneficial for a player to take a step back for a year or two before making the transition from player to coach."

To read the rest of his mailbag at MLB.com, click here.

Halloween Memories...

October 31, 2009 - Happy Halloween!

ESPN's Louise K. Cornetta asked Red Sox players, "What was your favorite Halloween costume?"

Jason Varitek: "Batman. We didn't have the shell and the armor back then. We had a plastic mask."

Mike Lowell: "I was a Viking one time with the horn hat and everything."

Jason Bay: "I'm having a tough time remembering anything I was for Halloween other than the cheesy baseball player, but that's not good. I can't use that. I was a hula dancer. But the embarrassing part is I wore it when I was in college; it wasn't even when I was younger. It was when I was like 20." (Teammate Jacoby Ellsbury chimes in, "I have pictures if you want.")

Jed Lowrie: "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. I was the blue one, Leonardo. He was my favorite."

Michael Bowden: "Well, it wasn't Halloween, but when the rookies had to dress up for initiation, I was the Tin Woman from 'The Wizard of Oz.' In eighth grade, I dressed up as a girl. I had pretty long hair. Some of the doors, when I went to get the candy, they would question what I was supposed to be because they didn't know I was a boy."

Daniel Bard: "I dressed up as Ice Man from 'Top Gun.' It was pretty good. I was told I resemble Val Kilmer in that movie. I spiked my hair up and got a green flight suit and aviator sunglasses."

Clay Buchholz: "I must have been 15 or 16 -- I dressed up as Michael Myers when 'Halloween' came out. I had the Michael Myers mask and wore one of my dad's work suits and had a chainsaw with no chain on it. I ran around the neighborhood chasing kids. It was pretty funny until the parents got mad at me and I had to sort of veer off into my house."

As for Big Papi...

"I have never dressed up, never as a kid. But my son, he's going to be a bumblebee this year."

Ms. Cornetta has included other Boston athletes in her poll. To read them all, click here.

*A BIG THANK YOU to Jake for sending me the link to this story!

A Perfect Fit?

October 27, 2009

With the news today that Brad Mills has been named the new manager of the Houston Astros (Congratulations to Coach Mills!) there is a now a vacancy for the Red Sox bench coach position...

And who better to fill that vacancy and be Terry Francona's right-hand man than Jason Varitek!

Apparently, I am not alone in this thinking...

The news of Mills' move to Houston is barely an hour old and already the blogs and fan forums are starting to buzz with talk of Tek being the perfect fit for the Sox bench coach position, or perhaps a player/coach.

I have already had several emails this afternoon from Tek fans who are on the same wave length with this idea. The East Bay Dirt Dog blogger thinks it's a great idea, and heck, even those cranky armchair GM's over at Sons of Sam Horn think so too (wonders never cease - even if some of the comments are snarky)!

Of course, the big obstacle to this great idea is that the Red Sox AND Jason have to agree with this thinking! Ah well, there is nothing wrong with a little collective wishful thinking among fans of the Captain!

Thoughts? send them to me!

Decisions, Decisions...

October 21, 2009

I have received quite a few emails from fans asking how the "whole team option/player option thing works"....

According to WEEI's Alex Speier:

"The Red Sox have until five days after the World Series to decide whether to exercise their $5 million club option on Varitek for next season. If the Red Sox decline their option, then Varitek would have five days from the time of being notified of the club's decision to decide whether or not to exercise a one-year, $3 million (with the possibility of another $2 million in incentives) player option."

Of course, I will update the site with any developments, so be sure to check back!

Also Today:

Check out this great story on a Yankees vs Red Sox rivalry that had a very happy ending!

Kelly Comes Through!

October 18, 2009

Kelly O'Connor has captured the last of the "Tek photos" for the 2009 season.

I have added them here.

But to check out all of her latest photos, click on her site here and then click on her new "SmugMug" photo page.

Kelly, thank you so much for sharing all of your beautiful photos with us!

Interview Caps & Quotes Added...

October 14, 2009

If you've missed NESN's Celebrity Spotlight Series on Jason's Putt Putt Tournament this month and can't wait for the next showing (Sunday, Oct 18th @ 12:00 pm & 6:30 pm)...

You can check out his interview in screen captures and quotes by clicking here.

If you're new to the site and missed photos from the event, which was held on September 14th at the Ferncroft Country Club in Middleton, Massachusetts...

You can check out fan photos here.

And if you need something to take up some of that non-baseball watching time...

You can check out last year's Celebrity Spotlight on Jason here.

Youk Talks Tek...

October 13, 2009

From an interview with Kevin Youkilis on WAAF's Hill-Man Morning Show:

H-M: "I thought it was really classy the way Tek handled himself. I know he's a guy who really likes to play, and it was probably really tough for him, but it was extremely classy the way he handled all that."

Kevin Youkilis: "Yeah, he does a great job. It was tough on him, but he's had a rough time the past two years, and he's always putting the team first. That's his attitude, and that's why he's captain of the team and they put that 'C' on his chest. So it's an amazing thing what he does, and he's a great team guy, and unfortunately he didn't get to play as much as he would have liked to, but he went about it the right way, and that's the biggest thing. There's some guys who go about it the wrong way, and he goes about it the right way. Doesn't use the media as leverage, and stuff like that. It's very good to have guys like that that you play with."

To hear the full interview, click here.

*Thank you to Anna!

"Beckett Wants His Tek-nician Back In 2010"

October 12, 2009

From WEEI's Mike Petraglia this afternoon:

Josh Beckett made it clear on Monday that he would like to see Jason Varitek back in a Red Sox uniform in 2010.

"He's definitely one of those guys I'd love to see back, even if the transition starts like it started at the end of the year," Beckett said. "I think there’s a lot of things that a lot of people can learn from him. And him being around, it's never a bad thing. He's so great with young guys and he knows how to run a clubhouse and that's why he wears that 'C' on his chest."

Red Sox GM Theo Epstein said Monday that he had yet to speak to Varitek about his role next year.

Epstein added that he Victor Martinez would likely see the majority of catching duty next year.

"It's obviously not anything you want to see somebody go through, and I consider Jason Varitek a dear friend of mine," Beckett added. "It’s obviously tough to see people go through those transitions but he handled it very well."

To read Mr. Petraglia's "Full Count" blog, click here.

Don't Forget...

Jason and his Putt Putt Tournament will be featured on NESN's Celebrity Spotlight Series tomorrow (Tuesday) evening at 6:30 p.m.

For other showings this month, see the October 9th post below or you can always keep up by checking the Events/Appearances section in the column on the right.

New Fan Photos Added...

October 11, 2009

R.L. (Becky) Cooley, our "California Connection", was in attendance Thursday for Game 1 of the ALDS and snapped some great photos to share with us.

She caught the Captain during batting practice, the pre-game ceremony, in the dugout and in the bullpen.

To see them all, click here.

And to check out a few photos from Allie, who attended a game at Fenway last month, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"It's been great. I think we have a great relationship. First, there is the respect factor of playing against each other, and then working together. It's worked out great for all of us.

"Vic's been great. He's been a huge part of this team, a huge part of our offense. He swings the bat really well, and he's done a good job behind the plate." -- Jason, on working with Victor Martinez, from an interview/article with MLB.com.

"I think he's just a prototypical winning catcher -- the guy that goes back there and understands the importance of calling 150 pitches. Having a pitcher execute the 150 pitches, and making anything you do offensively secondary to that.

"He will have an ugly at-bat and put that mask on and all of a sudden he's an All-Star catcher back there again. I think there's an important lesson for a lot of young catchers and something we certainly try to pound into our youngsters about the influence that you're going to have on a game. Even when he's not swinging the bat well, he's had as much of an influence on Boston's success in the last six, seven years as anybody over there." -- Angels manager Mike Scioscia, from the same interview/article.

Also Today:

Congratulations to the Red Sox for their 95-game winning season and another trip to the post-season!

Now that the season is officially over, I'll be keeping up with things as usual, but I will not turn the site into "Speculation Central" when it comes to Jason's plans for the 2010 season. I'll do my best to keep readers up-to-date without posting every media rumor and every opinion from those so-called "baseball experts" (who didn't do a real good job with their 2009 predictions)!

And for the fans that have asked already: The site will continue to follow Jason's career - wherever it takes him! Hope you'll come along for the ride!

Talkin' Tek On The Airwaves Today

October 9, 2009

Red Sox first base coach Tim Bogar was a guest on the Ripken Baseball Show hosted by Cal Jr. and Bill Ripken this afternoon on MLB Radio on XM:

Cal Ripkin, Jr.: "With the controversy in New York with Posada and Molina catching Burnett, and with the transition seemingly taking place in Boston right now with Victor Martinez catching and not Jason Varitek -- and you know, I don't know whether I am totally alright with that. I am a big Varitek fan and I love the way he controls the game and all the intangible things he does back there. Are we not going to see Jason catch a game or are we going to see Victor catch the whole staff?"

Tim Bogar: "Well, I'm not exactly sure how that's going to work out. I know that Vic has caught Beckett the last couple of games, and Terry has been thinking that through with the front office and how they want to go about it. You know, Jason Varitek is a professional. He is unbelievable at what he does. His preparation, his knowledge of the staff, he's caught this staff for a long time, they trust him.

"You get a guy like Victor on your team and it changes the dynamic a little bit. You want to have Mikey Lowell over there at third, you want to have Youkilis at first. And when Victor's not catching, he's going to play first base and David Ortiz is going to DH. It kind of gives you a little bit of a different direction to think about if you're not going to have him catch.

"But I'll tell you this - Jason has been awesome with Victor. They sit and they talk all the time. They try and get on the same page [with the pitching staff], and I'll tell you what, for a guy who has caught for as long as Tek has, and does the things that he has, he has been unbelievably great with Victor. And Victor has been very appreciative of it."

You can check out Ripken Baseball's website here.

Former Red Sox first baseman (and MLB Network analyst) Kevin Millar was a guest on the Dennis & Callahan Show this morning on WEEI:

Q: "Are you surprised at the way the Jason Varitek [situation] unfolded? … They bring Victor Martinez in and Terry Francona was not hesitant to send his captain to the bench and pinch-hit for his captain when he was in there and it appears he's not going to see any action in this series."

Kevin Millar: "It's always a tough thing, and Posada's going through it right this second, same type thing. You have a guy like Varitek who's been there and obviously the trade for Victor around the July deadline, it started making things a little bit uneasy I would say, you know, I'm not on the team. You have Mikey sit down a couple of days, I know Ortiz sits down a day, and then you had Varitek. It was kind of a revolving thing, and that's not an easy situation because Varitek being your captain and being your leader on that club. There are so many other intangibles that Jason brings, we sometimes as fans just look at stats and numbers and, 'OK, he's hitting .204 or .327' or there's more in this game behind the scenes that happens. Varitek gets paid a lot of money to put down fingers also and know lineups and execute different things. It's tough, but as we get older we get different roles that we’ve got to take also. And personally, that's what happens. With Varitek, it's about wins and losses right now."

Q: "When you have four guys in three spots, somebody is going to sit, somebody is going to be unhappy about sitting. What happens in the clubhouse dynamics when they make it known they are not happy with the way it's going?"

Kevin Millar: It can affect the other guys, but Jason Varitek is a professional. All four of these guys are professionals. You are not dealing with an amateur player that can cause problems. You want guys to play, let’s get that straight, but you’re not going to make everybody happy. You've got 25 guys, everyone wants to play. I mean, Kotchman was a starter before he came over, he’s been on the bench and I'm sure he's not happy, but these guys are professionals. That's a good clubhouse. That seems like a great group of guys. And Varitek? he should be out there everyday! But he handles it in a perfect way.

Q: What is your take on the pitcher-catcher relationship on the battery here. Do you care if a pitcher feels more comfortable with a catcher even if that catcher can't hit?

Kevin Millar: "We had that discussion yesterday on the Posada-Burnett situation. I think that's important that you want that pitcher comfortable throwing to that catcher because that’s the game. I mean, you’ve got to pitch and you’ve got to catch the ball. Offensively, you're going to hit and score some runs, but especially when you’ve got a horse like Beckett or a horse like Lester. Now if somebody, and I'll use an example, if I'm a pitcher and not comfortable, well great, but 'you're my fifth starter'. But if you are the Number One, or Number Two [pitcher]...Maddox always had a catcher...that's not uncommon! there's different scenerios that Varitek brings when you talk about intangibles besides just offense. It's not like he just can't hit!! He's got 14 homers, he's still a threat."

To listen to Kevin's full interview, click here.

Today's Tek Stats:

After the game last night, Terry Francona announced that Victor Martinez will be behind the plate again tonight to catch Josh Beckett.

-- Tek has caught Beckett in 83 of his 90 starts since the start of the 2007 season.

-- Josh Beckett's OPS-against with Martinez behind the plate (1.021 in just 81 plate appearances) is nearly three times more than when Tek (.625, in 742 plate appearances) is the receiver.

Television Reminder (in case you missed last night's premiere)...

Don't forget to tune in this month to NESN's Celebrity Spotlight Series hosted by Ray Bourque.

The featured celebrity is Jason, and the spotlight will be on his 2009 Celebrity Putt Putt Tournament that took place in September.

The Show's schedule:

Tuesday, October 13th @ 6:30 pm

Sunday, October 18th @ 12:00 pm & 6:30 pm

Friday, October 23rd @ 10:30 pm

Saturday, October 24th @ 2:00 pm

Monday, October 26th @ 10:30 pm

Friday, October 30th @ 5:30 pm

*You can always check the dates by scrolling down to the Events/Appearances section in the column on the right.

This Weekend...

R.L. Cooley, our "California Connection" will be in attendance at the ALDS in Anaheim and will have her camera in tow (and the lens cap off)!

Stop back by to see what new photos she has to share!

"There's One Job To Do And That's To Support My Teammates"

October 7-8, 2009

From WEEI and the LA Times this evening:

"It's different. It's definitely different," said Varitek. "You can't really control playing time, but you can control the other parts where you contribute. It may not be by playing. It may be on the bench. You can’t really control those things, but it's not the time of year to be selfish.

"There's one job to do and that's to support my teammates, and be prepared if the bell rings. All I can do is go and do what I do and be a good teammate."

The Sox captain said that he is still doing everything in his power to remain ready in case the Sox need him. At the same time, he is more than willing to contribute by offering Martinez any information that may prove of help.

"Vic's been great. He's been a huge part of our team, a huge part of our offense. He swings the bat really well, and does a really good job behind the plate," said Varitek. "I think we have a very good relationship, first from the respect factor of playing against each other, then from working together. Sometimes, over the course of learning and talking through stuff, a word of something from Victor to me helps me or vice-versa."

Varitek has yet to learn what sort of role, in any, he will play. But given that he is on a Red Sox postseason roster for the 15th different series, he refuses to express any disappointment about his role.

"We're in the postseason. I don’t know what's disappointing about being in the postseason. Everybody in this locker room at some point has helped the team win games," Varitek said. "Your level of how special this opportunity is goes well beyond anything personal."

With Varitek and the team set to face a mutual option at the end of the season, the veteran refuses to discuss anything regarding his contract.

"Honestly, this isn't the time for me to worry about me. I'm not equipped to answer that question now. I can't entertain that right now, and I don't think it's fair to me or this team. Your level of how special this opportunity is goes well beyond anything personal."

To read the rest of the WEEI interview, click here.

To read the story from the L.A. Times, click here.

To read Michael Hurley's column at NESN.com, click here.

To watch video from NECN on Tek's interview, click here.

Also Today:

New Fan Photos Added!

Nanci and her family were able to score tickets for the final game of the regular season on Sunday and she didn't let the opportunity go to waste!

Said Nanci, "We went to the final home game of the season on Sunday. We had Pavilion Standing Room but upgraded to Field Box 29 Row B; 3 seats away from the Sox Dugout and 4 rows up from the field (three rows behind the owners seats) They were AWESOME."

She snapped some great photos of the Captain - which you can check out here.

Want more Tek? Then you can check out her "#33 Tribute Page" here.

And you can see the rest of her beautiful Red Sox photos here.

Putting it in perspective...

For all the complaining that the Boston media and the Red Sox fans do about the Captain's hitting this season, both Jim M. and Jason L. (die-hard Mets fans) wanted you to know...

That Tek has more home runs (14) than 27 of 28 active players on the 2009 New York Mets. He also has more RBI (51) and more Doubles (24) than 25 of 28 active Mets players.

And they'd be glad to see him in a Mets jersey for what he can bring to their team's pitching staff...so stop complaining!

*Thanks guys!

Tek Stats:

-- Jason Varitek has hit 11 postseason home runs. That's the most in Major League history by a catcher. Johnny Bench and Javier Lopez each hit 10.

-- He is one of only six catchers with at least two triples in his career in the playoffs. Varitek has two, tied with three others including Yankees manager Joe Girardi. Johnny Bench and Tim McCarver both had three.

(from Ian Browne at RedSox.com)

Television Reminder...

NESN's Celebrity Spotlight Series, hosted by Ray Bourque, will premiere the "2009 Jason Varitek Celebrity Putt Putt Tournament" THIS Thursday, October 8th at 10:30 p.m.

The show will re-air throughout the month of October.

Tuesday: Tek-nically Speaking

October 6, 2009

From an interview with Victor Martinez that appears in the Patriot Ledger this morning:

How do you come to an established club, with an established and well-respected catcher, and expect to be welcomed with open arms?

"Obviously, coming into the new clubhouse, I didn't know what to expect," he said. "I never get tired of saying these guys make everything a lot easier for me. I never thought I was going to get comfortable that quick. Great teammates, great coaching staff, trainers staff, everybody. They make me feel like I’ve been playing here for a couple of years and I really appreciate that. For me, it's very important to feel comfortable in the clubhouse, even more on the field, and they really did that pretty good to me. I really appreciate that."

The one thing he really, really, really appreciates, though, was the cooperation he got from Jason Varitek, who had every reason to turn his back on the newcomer. Martinez, after all, was deemed a better first baseman than a catcher, yet he has taken over the starting catcher's duties and will assume that role when the playoffs begin this week.

"Man, he's been awesome," said Martinez, who has started 31 of the 60 games the Sox have played since his arrival. "Since I got here I think one of the biggest things for me is he's been all open for me, helped me out a lot with the pitching staff, telling me about every pitcher, the strong side of the pitcher, things I need to do when they get in trouble. He's been great. He's been all open for me. He even told me that if I got any questions, even during a game, don't hesitate in asking. I really appreciate that. He’s been great to me."

Asked if he was surprised by Varitek's attitude, Martinez said, "Well, you know what? Playing against him is one thing and having him as a teammate is another thing. He looks kind of mean. That's the way he plays. He played the game the way it's supposed to be played. He played the game hard and he's pretty smart in what he's doing, all the things that he's done for this organization, nobody's going to take that away from him and the organization. When I got here he kind of surprised me because I never thought that he was the kind of person he is. He's great."

To read the rest, click here.

Sox Win Final Game Of The Regular Season

October 4-5, 2009

The Captain gets a standing ovation from the Fenway Faithful -

From the Providence Journal and the Boston Herald:

Over his years as manager, Francona has frequently pulled veterans from the last game of the season for curtain-calls from the home fans. Sunday's only recipient of a bow was catcher Jason Varitek. Varitek replaced Victor Martinez behind the plate at the start of the fourth inning but was pulled after a few pitches in the eighth inning in favor of Dusty Brown.

"Dusty was like 'I'm sorry'," Varitek laughed. "I get kind of embarrassed anyways so it was kind of a blur to me. I was caught off-guard. Tito did that for a lot of us last year, too. I've been here a long time and I definitely appreciate it.

"I felt bad because Bardo - it's not the best shadow time of the day right there - had launched one high and bounced the next one. I was like, 'Oh gosh,' I felt bad for Brownie."

Francona, who has mentioned more than once the last couple of days that Varitek has been earning the "C" he wears on his jersey for the way he has handled the transition with Victor Martinez, downplayed the move.

"I told him before the game that he wasn't going to finish the game," the manager said. "I wanted him to get a couple at-bats and I just thought it was appropriate also that the fans get to acknowledge what he does."

The Game -

Jed Lowrie hit his first career grand slam to cap a five-run sixth inning as Boston outslugged Cleveland, 12-7, in the season and series finale for both clubs from Fenway Park.

J.D. Drew homered twice, Dustin Pedroia hit a two-run shot and David Ortiz also drove in two runs for the Red Sox (95-67), who ended the regular season by sweeping the four-game set.

Michael Bowden (1-1) hurled 2-2/3 innings of relief for the win, scattering a run and three hits. Starter Clay Buchholz was tagged for five hits and six runs over three innings for Boston, which plays the Angels in the American League Division series later this week.

Drew started the sixth with his second solo homer of the contest to put the Red Sox up 8-6, then an infield single by Joey Gathright, a base hit from George Kottaras and a walk to Jason Varitek loaded the bases.

Lowrie faced Chris Perez and greeted him with a grand slam into the bullpen in right for a 12-6 Sox edge.

In the seventh, Michael Brantley's pinch-hit two-out RBI single got the Tribe within five, but Daniel Bard, Fernando Cabrera and Jonathan Papelbon held Cleveland off the board over the final 2 1/3 frames.

As for the ALDS against the Angels, the Captain thinks they will go as far as the top of the rotation takes them.

"I hate to sound like a broken record, but when we pitch the ball well, and the way this lineup has come together, I believe that we will have our chances. I think it sets the tone with the starting pitching. We've got a pretty good threesome and a pretty good foursome. We have two horses at the front," Varitek said. "That bodes well."

Check out video of Jason's post-game interview here.

To see photos from the game, click here.

To see a few screen caps, click here.

Friday Night At Fenway: Red Sox 6, Indians 2

October 3, 2009

It started early last night...

The Red Sox took a 1-0 lead before making an out as Jacoby Ellsbury led off the first with a double, took third on his 69th stolen base of the year and kept going when catcher Kelly Shoppach’s throw went into left field for an error.

Ellsbury "is one of the very few in the game that can do that sort of thing on the basepaths," said Cleveland manager Eric Wedge.

In the third, Jason Varitek led off with a double to center, Gonzalez was hit by a pitch and Ellsbury walked to load them up with nobody out. Dustin Pedroia got a run home on a sacrifice fly to center. Victor Martinez followed with an RBI single to right that was trapped by Shin-Soo Choo. After a walk by Kevin Youkilis, Jason Bay drilled an RBI double to left and Boston had a 4-0 lead.

Kevin Youkilis hit a two-run double in the seventh.

Daisuke Matsuzaka began the game by giving up a double to Michael Brantley but then retired the next 12 batters.

Trouble started in the fifth when Travis Hafner doubled, took third on a wild pitch and scored on Luis Valbuena’s one-out single. Valbuena stole second and, after Shoppach walked, scored on Trevor Crowe’s single. With the bases loaded after another walk to Jamey Carroll, the right-hander struck out Choo swinging and the Sox kept the lead.

"I was able to work on points that I felt were going to be important going into the playoffs and I had a real good feel for those points," Matsuzaka said through a translator. "The most important point was being able to battle with runners on base."

Matsuzaka allowed two earned runs on five hits in six innings with seven strikeouts and three walks. He was 1-5 when he was sidelined with a minor right shoulder strain and 3-1 since then. His ERA in those four starts is 2.22, lowering his season mark from 8.23 to 5.76.

"There's a reason the guy won us 18 games last year," Varitek said. "He's been valuable. He's gone into the sixth or the seventh in each one of his outings. That's big. It gives us a chance to set up our bullpen."

Billy Wagner came on to retire two batters in the seventh, marking the first time he's pitched on back-to-back days since joining the Red Sox.

Takashi Saito hurled a scoreless ninth inning to seal the win.

To see photos from the game, click here.

To see a few screen caps, click here.

Tek Stats - heading into the 2009 Post-Season...

-- Jason, David Ortiz, Tim Wakefield and Kevin Youkilis can win their third Series in six years with the Red Sox this fall.

-- Jason has caught 63 of Boston's 65 postseason games since 1999, missing only two Wakefield starts.

-- Jason has the most homers (11) by a catcher in the postseason.

-- Jason played in his 54th postseason game on October 2, 2008, most ever by a Red Sox player and has appeared in 13 playoff series, also the most ever by a Boston player.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"Playing against him is one thing, and playing with him, having him as a teammate, is another thing. You play against him and he looks kind of mean. That's the way he plays. He's one of the guys I always looked up to the way he plays the game. He's great." -- Victor Martinez on Tek, during a recent interview.

Jason's current stats: AVG .209 | HR 14 | RBI 51 | DBL 24 | OBP .312 | SLG .391

New Fan Photos Added

October 1, 2009

Thank you to Ryan for sharing these photos from the September 16th game at Fenway between the Red Sox and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (who we'll be seeing again next week!).

To check 'em out, click here.

You can see more of Ryan's photography here.

Theo Talks Tek...

September 30, 2009

Red Sox General Manager Theo Epstein was a guest on 98.5 - The Sports Hub with hosts Michael Felger and Tony Massarotti on Wednesday. One of the subjects brought up by Michael Felger was the catching situation going into the post-season, which Mr. Epstein declined to discuss. But he did take a few moments to further discuss the team captain:

Felger: Have you settled on the catching situation through the post season? Is Victor Martinez going to be your everyday catcher? And, the follow-up to this is: it sure looks like from where we're sitting that there's been certainly a preference for Beckett to have Varitek, and Tito called it a 'stubbornness' on Beckett's part...has that been an issue internally shaking that thing out and what's it going to look like in the playoffs?

Theo Epstein: "You know what, that's not something that I'm going to address right now or is it even my place going forward because obviously Tito makes up the lineup, and as is customary, we will announce it the day before the first playoff game.

"Victor has done a really nice job adjusting to the pitchers since he's been here - all of them - now that's he worked with them, I think maybe Paul Byrd is the one starter he hasn't worked with...and big part of that has actually been Jason's 'Team First' attitude. A lot of people have assumed that because Jason's role has been reduced somewhat, and he hasn't been performing that well lately that he's unhappy and that's just not true!

"I give Tek a lot of credit. When we made the trade, he made it clear that his priority is that the Red Sox win. And he saw that part of his job when Victor got here was to take him under his wing and get him up to speed with the idiosyncrasies of each pitcher and how they prefer to prepare, what pitches they can execute, what pitches to stay away from in certain situations, and he's done a really good job with that.

"This might seem like a bit of a 'cop out', but I look at our catching situation as a partnership right now. When Victor is out there he's got a lot of Tek's preparation in him because those two have been working together to put the Red Sox in the position to win."

To listen to the entire interview, click here and download.

Johnny Pesky "Hits" The First Pitch...

September 29, 2009

...and the Captain was behind the plate to catch it!

Congratulations to Johnny Pesky on his 90th birthday!

The Red Sox presented a video montage of Mr. Pesky's career to commemorate his special day during a pre-game ceremony at Fenway Park yesterday afternoon.

Mr. Pesky, using his fungo bat, rolled a grounder to Tek to start the first game of a three-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays.

To see some great screen captures of the moment, taken by my friend Anna (which were far better than mine!), click here.

To read about the celebration, click here.

Monday: Tek-nically Speaking

September 28, 2009

From Alex Speier's column at WEEI.com this morning:

"I don't really give a crap about what they've done. I'm worried about kind of what we're doing," Sox catcher Jason Varitek said matter-of-factly after having calmly glimpsed a bit of the Yankees' on-field celebrations after the game. "I don’t think it's time for us to hang our heads, to be honest with you.

"We've got an opportunity to move forward and get ourselves a chance to play in the postseason. That's all you want: a chance. You don't want to see [the Yankees celebrate] on your watch, but fact of the matter is we have hope."

To read Mr. Speier's column, click here.

Jason Varitek: The Consummate Professional

September 27, 2009

From the column of ESPN's Pedro Gomez this afternoon:

On the other side of Martinez's increased playing time is the decreased role of the Red Sox's captain, Varitek. The 12-year veteran and mainstay behind the plate for Boston during their championship years is no longer a lock to be in the same role once the playoffs begin.

But not surprisingly to those inside the Red Sox clubhouse, Varitek has been first in line to help Martinez any way imaginable.

Said Varitek: "What am I going to do? Turn my back on my teammates? I want to win. If there are things from my experiences that I can pass on to Vic, I will do that. Plus, I like Vic."

[Manager Terry] Francona believes there's a direct connection between Varitek's innings behind the plate and his sinking batting average. But Varitek doesn't -- or won't -- see it that way.

"I don't know. I can't say that," Varitek said. "No, I'm not going to make any excuses."

Varitek's humbleness is a major reasons his teammates voted him as the club's captain* and why he remains one of the sagest voices inside the Sox's clubhouse.

To read the entire column, click here.

*Just to clarify: Mr. Gomez credits Tek's teammates for "voting" him in as the captain, but I've never seen or heard this mentioned before and in fact, Theo Epstein's comments in reference to the honor (from the 2004 press conference) does not mention a vote:

"We're not asking Jason to change at all by giving him that captaincy," Epstein said. "It's just a recognition of something everybody knows."

Also Today:

To see the latest photos...

The only one from the game (at left) and a few really nice fan photos taken by Amy that were taken during the Sox vs. Orioles series on September 20th, click here.

Tough Night For Tek

September 26, 2009

From Ian Browne's column on MLB.com:

"He's having a hard time," said Red Sox manager Terry Francona. "He's a tough kid. We made a lot of changes late, but we left him in because we wanted him to hit. He continues to work hard. It's not always easy. You do the best you can. You keep plugging away. You know he'll do that."

While Varitek -- Boston's 37-year-old captain -- has a neck injury that has bothered him since at least June, he refused to make any excuses.

"We'll deal with that at the end of the year," said Varitek. "I think, minus today, at times, I think I've had good at-bats. I had good at-bats in Baltimore, I had good at-bats in KC. Today, I didn't have as good of at-bats. I've got to try and stick with the process as much as I can and help this team when I can."

Francona indicated that the barrage of steals had little to do with Varitek.

"Well, with the left-hander [pitching], they go first move," Francona said. "There's not a lot the catcher can do there."

Varitek didn't think there was much he could do to stop the Yankees' speedsters. He said New York didn't catch him off-guard.

"No, we know Jeter will run, we know Alex will run. We know some of the guys that will run, so, no," said Varitek. "The only thing I can do is try to make a good throw. A couple of balls bounced and I had to jump for ball, but I made a good throw on the last one. You just have to try to stay within your game as much as you can."

*One steal, in which pitcher Hunter Jones threw the ball to Victor Martinez at first base (after the runner had taken off for second), was then thrown by Martinez well over the head of Dustin Pedrioa and into centerfield. The steal went against the Jones and Varitek total on the night.

To read Mr. Browne's column, click here.

From the Boston Globe:

After Varitek dressed, zipping up his boots while he answered each question, he said he planned on returning to the park early. He will take extra batting practice, as he always does, and help the man who is replacing him.

"I'm going to get with him and Daisuke," Martinez said. 'That way I'll have a better idea of what to [expect]."

No proclamations have been made about Varitek's role. On Wednesday, Martinez caught Josh Beckett, with whom Varitek shares a strong chemistry. Matsuzaka will make his 72nd start with the Red Sox today. It will be the fourth time someone other than Varitek is crouched behind the plate.

Varitek, the nerve center of two world championship teams, will still play a role on the team. It will less often be on the field.

"He's a big help," Martinez said. "A guy like him, you really want to have on your team. He's been a huge part for me since I got here. He's been open to me. Anything, if I have a question or something like that, he’s told me, 'Don't hesitate. Come to me any time.' He was one of the guys that I really look up to, the way he plays the game and the way he goes about his business. You really have to respect him.

"Things happen. He really does a lot of things for this team, this organization. You can't really talk about that."

Said Terry Francona, "There's a reason they put that 'C' on his chest. Even through maybe disappointment or...a little bit of a reduced role, he still exhibits a lot of leadership."

To read the article, click here.

Taking it past the "importance" of a baseball game....

From the Nashua Telegraph:

"A mom, her son, his wish for space to grow"

Fifteen-year-old Andrew Ostlund, who suffers ongoing seizures and has learning disabilities due to a brain tumor, has had his wish for a new, larger room in his Mont Vernon home granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, but the project is currently on hold because of a lack of funds to purchase the necessary building materials.

Andrew was just entering first grade when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor, Ostlund said. At 6, he underwent surgery at Children's Hospital Boston, where surgeons resected the tumor but also had to involve part of his brain in the procedure, which left Andrew learning disabled and prone to seizures, [his mother] Melissa Ostlund said.

The seizures increased in frequency and severity around the time Andrew turned 12. Since, she said, he's watched his friends reach milestones, like preparing to get their driver's license, things he'll likely never be able to do. Having a new, larger space equipped with things he likes to do would boost his spirits, Andrew said.

"Just to get away . . . to not think about my problems...to get horrible thoughts out of my head," Andrew said about a new space.

As it stands now, Andrew's proposed new room has been narrowed to two options – putting it over the existing garage, or renovating the garage into living space. The former is preferable, Ostlund said, as Andrew would be within earshot should an overnight medical emergency arise.

Once upstairs, what appears from the curb to be a rather spacious second floor is more like a series of small rooms separated by a narrow hallway. The first room is Andrew's, closer to a walk-in closet in size than a bedroom. He tries to make do, however, showing a visitor where he now plays his video games by opening the closet door. "Thank goodness I'm not claustrophobic," he says with a smile.

Above a mini-fridge hang posters of sports figures, among them Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek, whom Andrew met in August at a game organized by Children's Hospital. "He's a really nice guy," Andrew said. "He let us take our time, asking questions . . . He signed whatever we asked him to sign."

Volunteers, including many from Habitat for Humanity, are prepared to begin work as soon as materials become available.

*Anyone able to assist financially with the project can make checks payable to The Andrew Ostlund Fund, and send them to St. Joseph Hospital Employees Credit Union, care of Lucy Descoteau, 172 Kinsley St., Nashua.

Those interested in donating materials can e-mail Andrew's mother, Melissa Ostlund at heartfelt333@aol.com.

To read the entire story, click here.

Seems Like Old Times!

September 25, 2009

Jason will catch Jon Lester tonight in the start of the final regular season series against the Yankees in New York.

Victor Martinez will play first, and Kevin Youkilis will man third base.

Mike Lowell is getting the night off against Yankees starter Joba Chamberlain.

According to NESN, the team did not get into New York from their series against the Royals until 4:30 am.

Reminder: If you don't have the NESN channel, Friday's game will also be on TBS (7:05pm), Saturday's game will be on FOX (4:10pm), and Sunday's game will be on ESPN (1:05pm).

Added: Just A Few Fantastic Photos...

September 24, 2009

...from Kelly O'Connor!

Kelly was on hand for both games against the Tampa Bay Rays on September 13th and got some great shots once again! (She's the gift that keeps on giving!)

To see just a few of her latest, click here.

For the links to see more of her photography, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"He is prepared, there is no question about it. To the extent Jason is? Victor goes about his game calling a little bit different than Jason does. Jason has a lot more recall based on scouting reports and based on past history with individual hitters. Victor goes a lot more on feel. When a certain starter or a certain reliever has going for him on that particular day, and the feel from what he gets from the hitter standing at the plate. That is not to say that Victor's approach is wrong, it’s a little bit different." -- Pitching coach John Farrell, on the difference in the game calling approach between Victor Martinez and Tek. (WEEI).

"It was fine. We're still feeling each other out. Obviously, you can't expect him to go out there and he and I be like me and Jason have been for three years now. It was good." -- Josh Beckett, on being caught by Victor Martinez on Wednesday night. (Boston Globe)

"I think Josh is stubborn. Remember his first year here? I remember even saying, 'there's going to be a day when we say that fondly'. And we do now. He's a stubborn kid. There's a lot to be said - that's why Tek has gotten all the accolades from us because it's important. There's some guys, maybe it's more important than others. Josh is one of them.

"I guess I think between the time they've been together, when Tek puts something down, Beckett throws it with conviction. Even if it's the wrong pitch, if you're throwing 96 with a good curveball and actually a pretty decent changeup, even if it's maybe the wrong pitch on the scouting report, if he's throwing it with conviction, it's probably the right pitch. I think Beckett moreso than a lot of people. When he throws it with conviction, he's OK." -- Terry Francona, on Beckett's comfort level working with Tek. (Boston Globe)

Today's Tek Stats:

-- Going into Wednesday night's game - Beckett was 0-2 with an 11.25 ERA in the three starts he had made with catchers other than Tek. With With Tek behind the plate, Beckett is 15-4 with a 3.16 ERA.

-- Going into the final week of September - Tek is the ONLY player on the Red Sox to hit a grand slam this season.

The Feeling Is Mutual...

September 22, 2009 - Afternoon Update

Actress Jennifer Garner was a guest last night on the Jay Leno Show to plug her new movie, "The Invention of Lying."

During her appearance, she was asked by Leno to name each player in the Red Sox starting lineup. She took this request very seriously and asked him if she was supposed to give the batting order from their last game against the Orioles, or last night's batting order against the Kansas City Royals. Leno told her to do the lineup as it was "right now". She was then given a New York Yankees cap and told she had to wear it while she gave the lineup or he wouldn't let her plug her new movie afterwards. She thought about it for a few moments, made several faces, and then promptly turned it around backwards before placing it on her head. She was then forced to hold a photo of Derek Jeter, which she held at the tips of her fingers as if holding a dead fish.

On to the lineup...

She did fine with Jacoby Ellsbury leading off and Dustin Pedrioa batting second, but then couldn't remember the third batter's name, eventually settling on Alex Gonzalez at catcher rather than Victor Martinez, and then explained, "but I'm a Varitek girl". She did the rest of the lineup 4 through 9 without any further problems (eventually giving Alex Gonzalez his proper place in the batting order as well as his position).

Tek would have been pleased. During a few interviews over the years (like this one from 2005), he has been asked to name his favorite actress...and guess who it was? Jennifer Garner!

You can see Jennifer's funny guest segment on Leno here.

Celebrity Spotlight On Jason's Putt Putt Tournament

September 22, 2009

NESN's Celebrity Spotlight Series, hosted by Ray Bourque, will premiere the "2009 Jason Varitek Celebrity Putt Putt Tournament" on Thursday, October 8th at 10:30 p.m.

The show will re-air throughout the month of October.

You can "catch" some of the action on the Red Sox Report today at 5pm.

You can also watch video highlights of the Tournament here.

And if you missed the fan photos, you can check them out here and screen caps here.

Thank you to Anna and Audrey!

Sox Sweep Orioles - Sunday's game: Red Sox 9, Orioles 3

September 20, 2009

Daisuke Matsuzaka extended an outstanding stretch by Boston's rotation, and the Red Sox cruised past the Orioles 9-3 Sunday for a three-game sweep.

Ramon Ramirez, Hideki Okajima and Takashi Saito combined to finish off the game and send the Sox on their way to Kansas City for a four-game series against the Royals.

Jason Bay and Jacoby Ellsbury both homered and drove in three runs for the Red Sox, who captured the season series 16-2 by winning the final eight games.

As in other Sox vs. Orioles match-ups this season, The Sox delivered the knockout blow early and the Orioles couldn't respond. Orioles starter Jason Berken was hit early and hit hard. Bergen gave up an RBI single to Jason Bay and a 2-RBI single to Mike Lowell in the first. He gave up another RBI to Victor Martinez in the second. Jacoby Ellsbury got to him quickly in the third, drilling a ground-rule double to cash in Jason Varitek, who singled with two out, and Alex Gonzalez, who lined a double down the left-field line.

The victory, combined with the Texas Rangers' loss to Los Angeles, reduced Boston's magic number to win the AL wild card to seven. The Red Sox have an eight-game lead over the Rangers.

Sox starters have allowed three runs or fewer in 13 straight games, going 8-1 with a 2.18 ERA. That's one reason why the Red Sox have won 10 of 11, including a 3-1 win Friday night.

"When we throw quality starts we've been in pretty much every game," Jason Varitek said. "It's a big part of how we win."

Sorry, I couldn't locate any photos or video of Jason from the game!

Tek-nically Speaking...

September 19, 2009

"I love catching. I love the relationship a catcher has with pitchers and the responsibility. But if we have had success with me catching, it's because of Jason Varitek. He has been unbelievable working with me to know the pitchers and work on game plans. I am very fortunate to be able to work with Jason. I look up to him." -- Victor Martinez, as quoted in Peter Gammons' blog today at ESPN.com.

"I'll throw to whomever they put back there...

"It matters. Don't get me wrong. It matters. Jason Varitek is very special to me because we end up getting in a rhythm very, very quickly. But the bottom line is that it's your fault. If you can't execute a pitch and you give up a hard hit ball it's your fault. Anybody who tells you different is probably a (wimp).

"For me the thing is that I throw so many pitches. For somebody new it's very difficult to remember everything I throw because I throw everything to both sides of the plate. I might want that pitch, but they might set up to the wrong spot, which, like I said, is still my fault. I need to shake until I get what I want." -- Josh Beckett, on the idea of throwing to a new catcher (Martinez) - from Rob Bradford's blog at WEEI.com.

When Tek catches Beckett:

Beckett has been far more effective with Varitek behind the plate than any other catcher. In three starts without Varitek, Beckett is 0-2 with an 11.25 ERA and a 2.13 WHIP. In 27 starts throwing to Varitek, Beckett is 15-4 with a 3.16 ERA and a 1.06 WHIP. (Boston Globe)

Also from Mr. Gammons' blog:

How much Martinez will catch next season is an unknown. Indians people have warned the Red Sox that Martinez will wear down if he catches 130-something games. Varitek can exercise his player option for $3 million for 2010 or the club can bring him back for $5 million. Or the Red Sox can find a veteran catcher who can start 80 games or they can bring along one of the young catchers in their organization. No one knows for now, especially considering what Varitek has meant to the Red Sox.

To read the entire blog, click here.

To read Mr. Bradford's entire blog, click here.

To see a larger version of Kelly O'Connor's photo above, click here.

*Thanks to Lynn for the heads-up on the ESPN blog!

New Photos Added...

September 18, 2009 - Evening Update

Kim and her friend Heather attended Jason's Putt Putt Tournament as spectators on Monday, and she sent me a couple of photos to share with other fans.

One photo took honors as the new Picture of the Week (at right).

The others, along with Kim's comments about the attending the event, can be found here.

Kim, thank you so much!

Josh Beckett: "There Isn't A Son Of A (Gun) Alive I'd Rather Have Back There!"

September 18, 2009

Excerpts from articles in the Boston Herald and at RedSox.com this morning:

Jason Varitek is built like a hunk of granite, which is fitting, because for years he has been an absolute rock behind the plate.

With Varitek at catcher, the Red Sox have counted on a number of certainties. Detailed preparation. Encyclopedic knowledge of opponents. A willingness to sacrifice his body for the team.

One of Varitek’s most underrated skills, however, is the one that let him down each of the last two nights. The Red Sox overcame it during Wednesday’s 9-8 victory over the Angels, but it directly contributed to last night’s 4-3 loss to end an otherwise outstanding homestand and a seven-game winning streak.

"I guess it's frustrating, but there isn’t a son of a (gun) alive I'd rather have back there," said Sox starter Josh Beckett. "Over the last four years, I can't remember one time where that's happened. I think it's a freak deal. I've seen curveballs stay down like that before. Generally they hit the plate or just hit a soft piece of dirt or something. I'm quite sure that's what happened, because usually my curveball bounces higher than that."

The play didn’t decide the game, but was a mighty contributor.

"I don't know if it hit a piece of dirt and just stayed down," Beckett said. "Over the last four years, I can't remember one time where Tek doesn't block that ball. He's so good at it. I just think it took kind of a wild hop and stayed down on him."

Varitek will seek some video evidence before he gives a true breakdown of the play.

"I have to see the replay and look at it for myself," Varitek said. "I thought I was in a position to block it. Obviously, I didn't keep it in front of me. It's something that I usually do well, blocking the ball. I have to look and see what adjustments that I need to make."

To watch video of Jason's post-game interview, click here.

Winter Is Just Around The Corner...

September 17, 2009

And what could be better than a handmade, autographed Red Sox quilt to keep you warm?

The New England Quilt Museum is pleased to announce that a unique work of quilt art and sports memorabilia is up for auction NOW on eBay.

The quilt has a white center panel (bottom of photo) signed by 23 players from the 2009 Red Sox team, including:

Jason Varitek, Tim Wakefield, Josh Beckett, Kevin Youkilis, David Ortiz, Hideki Okajima, Dustin Pedroia, J.D. Drew, Nick Green, Jed Lowrie, Jason Bay, Daniel Bard, Takashi Saito, and Jonathan Papelbon, as well as Red Sox President and CEO Larry Lucchino.

The autographed fabric was then made into a quilt by nationally-renowned quilt artist Rosemary Bawn, who is known nationwide for her pictorial Red Sox works.

Featuring a panorama of Fenway Park, the piece was hand-quilted by the artist. Measuring 54” by 40”, the work took a total of 175 hours to complete. It incorporates fabrics that are reproductions from a quilt soon to be exhibited at the museum, made around 1910, with early twentieth century baseball players depicted in the fabric.

The New England Quilt Museum, located in downtown Lowell, Massachusetts, sponsors a wide range of activities to bring art education to children in public schools, make comfort quilts for hospitalized children in cooperation with Project Linus, help Scouts earn their badges, raise awareness for breast and cervical cancer, and a host of other projects.

The Museum sent the Red Sox Foundation a panel of fabric this spring, asking that the players and management sign the cloth to be made into a fundraising quilt, to further the Museum’s mission. The Foundation responded with virtually the entire team signing.

Massachusetts artist and longtime Sox fan Ms. Bawn transformed that signed panel into the quilt that is being auctioned, using her popular style, which combines traditional quilt motifs with images of players, fans, and Fenway Park. The auction of the quilt is expected to bring funding that will help the museum maintain its 150-year old building, as well as the community projects that they host.

You can place your bid for the quilt here.

You can also check out the the New England Quilt Museum's website here to see a larger version of this beautiful quilt and sign up to be notified of the specific time of the auction, and to be sent a direct link to the eBay page.

*Thank you to Jennifer Rogers, Founder of Crafters Quarters, LLC.

You can check out Crafters Quarters website here.

Quotes from last night's game...

"Ramon Ramirez's slider had such wicked movement that not only did Kendry Morales swing and miss at it for strike three of what looked to be the third out of the seventh, but Jason Varitek got handcuffed. Morales reached on a what was ruled a passed ball." -- Red Sox reporter Ian Browne, in his summary of the game last night.

"It was a slider that broke in the other direction. We were trying to go back foot, it kind of back-ended a little bit...it just hit off the end of my glove, and I couldn't get to it". -- Jason, on the movement of his first passed ball of the season.

"You saw the swing and miss. The ball had such good movement." -- Terry Francona, on the Ramon Ramirez pitch and passed ball.

"What he does out at short, there's not many in the game who can match what he does out there. That's still a level of importance. But he's come up with some big hits for us." -- Jason, on the importance of Alex Gonzalez to the team.

To watch video of Jason's post-game interview, click here.

Note to the Armchair GM's: Regardless of the passed ball - Tek is STILL the League leader for the lowest WP + PB/G! (BaseballReference.com)

Also Today:

Beckett Tipping Pitches? The Captain doesn't think so!

"I don't know. I don't think so," said catcher Jason Varitek, before Beckett's last start, a rain-shortened, five-inning win over the Rays Saturday at Fenway.

"The home runs haven't been all on the same pitches."

Indeed, in that stretch, Beckett allowed nine home runs on fastballs, four on curveballs, and one on a cutter.

"It's just refinement," Varitek said. "The majority of those, (Hideki) Matsui's (second home run on Aug. 23, on the cutter) was a pretty good pitch as far as location, what we were tying to do, all of the above. That happens. (Matsui's) first one (on a first-pitch fastball in the second inning) was misfired. I don't put a whole lot of stock in that. Even if a guy is tipping, for the most part, still if they execute their pitches, I think that your pitcher has much more advantage. So, I don't really know exactly. But Josh will be fine."

To read the entire article, click here.

Fan Photos From The Putt Putt Tournament...

September 15, 2009 - Evening Update (see below)

...have been added!

Audrey Humphreys attended Jason's Putt Putt Tournament last night and sent me several photos soon after!

She had the opportunity to speak with Jason and told me that not only was the event "awesome", but so was he (and I believe there may have been a mention of how handsome he was too!).

To view them all, click here.

*Thank you so much Audrey!

Check out Sox1Fan's blog and photos on the event here.

If you attended and would like to share your photos, just email me (Erin@Jason-Varitek.com).

Tek-nically Speaking...

Red Sox GM Theo Epstein was a guest on ESPN's Jim Rome radio show today:

Jim Rome: "How receptive was Varitek to Martinez coming in? And, when you consider how much Varitek knows and how much he can share, has he been helpful in moving Martinez along?"

Theo Epstein: "Had it been someone besides Jason Varitek it could have been a sticky situation, but the thing you have to keep in mind about Jason is that the first and most important thing to him always is that the Red Sox win. He is a Red Sox through and through and he wants to win.

"I think the way he took the move is instead of seeing through the selfish lens, he saw it through the Red Sox lens and said, 'You know what, this is great. Victor Martinez is great. He's a good player and is going to help us win games and I need to do everything I can to help get him comfortable, teach him about our pitching staff and make this work' - and that's exactly what he's done.

"There has been no ego involved. Obviously, he's playing less that he has in the past, but that also enables him to stay a little bit healthier. You know, he wouldn't tell anyone, but at the time of the trade he was nursing some injuries of his own. Now that he's playing a little less, he's fresher out there and the combination of those two behind the plate and how they compliment each other has worked out well."

To listen to Theo's full chat with Jim Rome, click here (you must purchase to listen).

*Thank you to Sterling for the heads-up!

Quotes from the game...

"I don't see how anybody doesn't have nerves. You play your first spring training game you have a little nerves. You play your first game you haven't played in a little while, you have a little nerves. I can't speak for him but nerves, excitement, all the above, I had them, too. I didn't know what to expect." -- Jason, on what he was feeling as he got ready to catch the Red Sox righty. (WEEI)

"There's not much left in the season, but in the limited time, in the limited opportunity that I do have, I want to show my appreciation to the fans and my teammates by contributing in a positive way." -- Daisuke Matsuzaka on making up for time lost. (Providence Journal)

"It was nice to see for him, because everybody forgets this guy won us 18 games last year. And it was nice for him to go out there and finally have some results. You want to see somebody succeed, because he's a valuable part of this team." -- Jason, on the crowd's reaction to Matsuzaka's return and performance. (Boston Globe)

"He came after guys. He used his fastball in and out of the zone; he had his cutter working today. He did really good for a guy who hasn't pitched since June 19th. It shocked all of us." -- Angels outfielder Torii Hunter on Matsuzaka's performance. (ESPN)

"We are playing well. But it's the pitching. It's been tremendous. It's always the pitching that wins." -- Jason on the state of the Red Sox pitching staff. (Eagle Tribune)

"I've been a burden on my teammates. More than anything, I feel that I owe them." -- Daisuke Matsuzaka, during post-game comments. (ESPN)

"You can’t put everything into one start because he had to get out there and get a feel. It could have just as well gone the other way, but the good thing is he was strong." -- Jason, cautioning both media and fans to keep this start by Matsuzaka in perspective. (Providence Journal)

"He did good. Thumbs up." -- Josh Beckett on Daisuke's performance. (Providence Journal)

"He was a blast to play behind!" -- Jason Bay, on his view of Daisuke's performance. (Patriot Ledger)

“Don’t ask me. That's new. Three from back there, five on the rubber. He got his eight. That was a surprise." -- Jason, on Dice-K's new warm-up technique between innings. (Boston Globe)

"It’s something that I used to do in Japan." -- Daisuke explaining his "new" old warm-up technique. (Boston Globe)

To read an interview with Jason after the game, click here.

To watch a video of Jason's post-game interview from NESN, click here.

To see a couple of photos from the game, click here.

No Red Sox Game? No Problem!

September 14, 2009

Instead, you can check out this video on the success of Josh Beckett's Beckett Bowl which took place on September 10th!

You'll see both highlights and interviews with your favorite players...including a certain Red Sox captain!

To watch it, click here.

*Thanks to Anna for the heads-up!

Tek-nically Speaking...

"We've always been pretty good at home and there's a reason - it has to do with our support system, and it always has. The fans are able to create that energy in a positive way. When they get behind us, they make a difference. I've always said that, and I believe that." -- Jason, on the 10 shutouts this season at Fenway Park. (Boston Globe)

"I think it's a testament to things finally getting settled. We've played better -- much better. We still need to pitch the ball well. That's a key. Our lineup's gotten longer and it's gotten better." -- Jason, on the positive weekend of Red Sox baseball. (Red Sox Official Site)

And a Tek-related comment...

"I really like to play both. I like to be behind the plate. I like to be at first. I think playing first gives me a needed break for my legs and my knees. Playing first also takes away a lot of stress mentally, too. I'm very happy with the way it's going right now." -- Victor Martinez, on whether he would rather have a permanent position. (Sporting News article)

Lester & Tek Help Sox Sweep Rays In Game 2 of Twinbill

September 13, 2009 - NFL Sunday Kickoff

"Tek did a great job behind the plate, as usual...calling a good game and keeping them off balance." - Jon Lester, during a post-game interview on Red Sox Radio.

Jon Lester hurled eight scoreless innings and Jason Varitek drove in two runs (his 50th and 51st RBI of the season), as Boston downed reeling Tampa Bay, 4-0, in the back end of a day-night doubleheader from Fenway Park.

Jason Bay homered and Mike Lowell knocked in the other run for the Red Sox, who took the opener by a 3-1 count thanks to Dustin Pedroia's game-winning two-run homer in the eighth and have won five in a row.

Lester (13-7) won his third consecutive start, yielding only two hits while fanning seven with three walks for Boston, whose lead in the AL wild card race remained 3 1/2 games over Texas, which beat Seattle, 7-2, later Sunday.

"I think any game here takes on more importance. Obviously, we're trying to make the playoffs and grind that out through the season," Lester said of the Sox possibly letting down in a game or two down the stretch. "But if you ask anyone in that clubhouse, I don't think the intensity changes from April to September. Once you get into the playoffs, that changes a little bit."

Evan Longoria doubled for the Rays, who extended their losing streak to 11 consecutive games.

James Shields (9-11) was tagged for six hits and three runs with six strikeouts and three walks over six full frames.

The Sox picked up a run in the second as J.D. Drew walked, David Ortiz doubled and Lowell's groundout plated Drew.

Lester held the Rays in check, yielding just one hit -- a two-out Gabe Kapler single in the second -- through six innings.

Mike Lowell got the Sox on the board in the bottom of the second with an RBI groundout and later doubled with a runner on first in the bottom of the sixth. In stepped captain Jason Varitek, who ripped a hot shot at first baseman Willy Aybar. The ball took a sharp hop and Aybar couldn't handle it, letting the ball go into right field and allowing two crucial insurance runs to score.

Lester worked around a leadoff walk in the seventh, then Dioner Navarro singled in the eighth and moved to second on a wild pitch. B.J. Upton's fly out advanced him to third, but pinch-hitter Pat Burrell struck out and was ejected for arguing the call, then Jason Bartlett flew out.

Bay began the home frame with his 32nd homer of the season, and Billy Wagner locked down the win despite allowing a double and single in the ninth.

To watch Jason's post-game interview, click here.

To see the latest photos, click here.

Tomorrow:

The Jason Varitek Celebrity Putt Putt Tournament will be held tomorrow at the Ferncroft Country Club in Middleton, Massachusetts from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Money raised from the event will benefit the Saints Medical Center and the Celebrities for Charity Foundation.

If you attend and would like to share your photos on the site, please email me!

Tek-nically Speaking...

This was just too much fun to pass up:

"Is Jason Varitek the most physically perfect male ever constructed? Discuss." - a comment from an adoring fan on the popular Centerfield blog.

You can check out a larger version of that photo here.

Hope everyone has a good start to their week after a good weekend of Red Sox baseball!

Tek Is A Fan Of Martinez

September 12, 2009

Excerpts from another excellent article/interview by Joe McDonald at the Providence Journal:

Jason Varitek knows the exact moment during the offseason when he can begin his winter workouts in preparation for spring training. When he can walk down a flight of stairs without feeling discomfort, it's time to end his hibernation and get ready for some baseball.

"You need a point of recovery and let your body heal, but if I'm still really struggling physically I have to wait a little bit longer," he said.

It's a common occurrence for Varitek, a 13-year major-league player, to be covered in ice packs with only his head and toes showing. The 37-year-old averages 130 games per season, and the majority of his days off have usually come when knuckleball pitcher Tim Wakefield is on the mound.

Varitek's body typically feels the toll in the second half of the season, but this summer has been a little different. That's because the Red Sox acquired catcher/first baseman Victor Martinez from Cleveland at the trade deadline. His presence has allowed manager Terry Francona to give Varitek more days off of late, which has helped him strengthen and recover for the final push of the regular season and the postseason.

"He's given us a huge bat right smack in the middle of the order, batting third every night," said Francona. "He's a switch-hitting presence and brings energy. All the things we've heard in Cleveland are proving out here. He's been a good teammate and has worked with Jason. I think Jason deserves a lot of credit. He's been very open with Victor."

Having Martinez around has helped Varitek, too, the manager said.

"I think a lot," said Francona. "He was pretty beat up. And he always plays and never says a word, but it's been really good for him."

Varitek acknowledges that having Martinez around has helped him physically.

"There's a level where your body gets used to playing every day, so you have to keep the motor running to make sure I do enough things, especially for my catching joints," said Varitek. "He's been such a great addition to our team. We work well together and he's brought a lot to this team."

At the time of the trade it was only natural to wonder what Martinez's presence would mean for Varitek's future. It was clear the captain's playing time would be affected, but he's maintained the mind-set that the end result –– a chance to win another World Series –– is more important.

"I'm going to be there for him any way I can," said Varitek. "I'll teach him and let him know about our pitchers, signs or whatever we need to do. Team-wise you can look at what somebody can bring talent-wise to a team and understand what his bat can do, and has done, in this lineup. You'd hate to keep him as a pinch-hitter, but he’s pretty good at that, too."

Varitek is a guy who would play every single game if he was allowed, but it’s almost impossible.

It’s almost certain the Red Sox will pick up the $7.5-million option on Martinez’s contract for the 2010 season. Varitek also has a club option. Talking offseason business, however, when a club is in the middle of a playoff race is not what anyone involved would like to do.

"That has to stop. It really does," said Varitek. "That can go in a thousand different directions. We have to focus on what we have and what we have to do. We have a really big month ahead of us to keep that opportunity to get into the postseason."

Entering Friday’s game, Martinez had played a total of 36 games (21 starts as catcher) since arriving in Boston. The switch-hitter has compiled a .326 average with six homers and 28 RBI in a Red Sox uniform.

"I love Vic and so far it's been a great back and forth," said Varitek. "He helps me with my hitting and being able to watch him on a daily basis helps me, so it's good."

If you have a few moments, please take them to read the complete article/interview here.

Bowled Over!

September 11, 2009 - Always Remember!

"He's just another person on this team that does something to try and give back, and with Josh being a long-time friend now along with a teammate, of course I'd be here!" -- Jason at Josh Beckett's "Beckett Bowl" event last night.

Comcast Sportsnet's Mary Paoletti shares some of the funnier moments with some of the Sox' most serious men at last night's charity event:

The boisterous fun of Thursday night’s Beckett Bowl brought me back to my school days. As I walked up the stairs at Jillian’s and into the bowlathon HQ, the back-to-UConn-blowout-bash party feeling was powerful enough to stop me in my tracks.

There I was hanging out with the pros, media pass around my neck...

As for my momentary star-shock, I decided to take a seat and shake it off while doing what I do best: being a geek. The truth is that my memory is awful and I need to write things down as they happen or else poof–it’s gone. I’d probably go home and write something like "Somebody bowled better than somebody else. Regardless of the reasoning, if I had looked behind my little island where I sat I would have noticed that I was the only person there–media or otherwise–taking notes.

Some people certainly noticed me though.

"Don't keep that last score in the book,' a voice said. It was Josh Beckett. "Sorry," I said, glancing up at his numbers for the first few bowling frames. "Already got it down." Beckett frowned–ever the competitor. "Is that in pencil? You should always write in pencil," he said.

Okay. I thought, inhaling slowly. I just got writing utensil advice from the man they call Commander Kickass. Of course I had to write that down. Which is when Jason Varitek walked over.

"What are you doing?" he asked me. I looked down at my glossy white folder. "Taking notes. Observing. I'm working," I replied. Varitek smiled but looked skeptical. "It's just that you're frowning and writing all this stuff down..." he said. In that moment I tried to imagine what I looked like to the bowlers and revelers who were enjoying their non-seasonal beer. I narrowed my eyes at the Red Sox Captain. "You realize I'm going to write terrible things about you now," I said. He laughed, clearly unworried. "Like what? That I suck at bowling??

Varitek: 1; Mary: 0.

Because he didn't suck. At least, not when Beckett left their shared lane.

While Mike Lowell claimed he deserved honor of best bowler, Beckett performed as an Ace is expected to. Buchholz, however, should apparently stick with pitching. His fiancée out-bowled him, making it clear who would be wearing the pants (or at least the bowling shirt) in the marriage.

To read the rest of Ms. Paoletti "notes" on the event, click here.

Oh, and be sure to keep an eye on Texy's Centerfield blog...

Not only is she back, but she has promised to give a complete report on "all the goings-on at Josh Beckett's afterparty last night", some of which apparently involves Tek in a cowboy hat!

(which is not the first time we've seen the Cowboy Tek look, which proves that good guys can wear black hats!)

Tek Support

September 10, 2009 - Afternoon Update

Josh Beckett was a guest on the Hill-Man Morning Show today to talk about his "Beckett Bowl" charity event that will take place this evening at Lucky Strike in Boston. He also took just a few moments to talk about his working relationship with Jason:

Q "What do you think about the difference between Varitek and Victor Martinez?"

Beckett: "Well, Victor's only caught me one time, but you know, Varitek and I have a little system that we use, and for the most part it's been pretty successful."

Q: "Does he get mad if you're calling him off? You seemed to be calling him off a lot on Monday."

Beckett: "No, he doesn't get mad! Like I said, we're out there trying to do one thing. We're together on that. And whoever comes up with the best plan, two heads is always better than one. And I think Tek always believes that."

(Okay, that was it! I told you it was brief, although it was considerably more than he said on a lot of other topics. Another man of few words!)

To learn more about Josh's event and his Foundation, click here.

*Thank you to Anna for the "heads-up"!

Victor Martinez was interviewed by NESN's Tom Caron about his time in Boston so far and shared his thoughts about working with Tek:

Victor: "I am very respectful for Jason Varitek. He is a great guy and a great catcher. We have been playing a little bit, behind the plate and man, he has been great for me. Varitek you know, he's been there for me. He's always saying, 'if you need anything, you just come out and ask me'. That's the one thing that I really appreciate, that is one of the things that makes me feel more comfortable in the clubhouse and on the field."

Tom Caron: "Are you able to learn that much more about these pitchers because of someone like Jason Varitek?"

Victor: "Oh yeah, definitely. He's telling me 'this guy is very good with this part', and 'that guy is very good with that part' and that helps me a lot."

To watch the entire video, click here.

*Thank you to Sterling for the "heads-up"!

Red Sox 7, Orioles 5

September 10, 2009

"Hats off to Jason Varitek tonight for calming me down - I was a little frustrated early. He got a couple of hits, came out of the game, and in the locker room I wanted to talk about his hitting and he wanted to talk about my pitching. It's nice to have a guy behind the plate who cares that much about the pitchers and what they do. He did a good job of getting me through tonight." -- Sox starting pitcher Paul Byrd during his post-game press conference.

Five days after a rough outing in Chicago in which he allowed seven runs on 10 hits in just 2-1/3 innings, Paul Byrd rebounded nicely by scattering six hits over five innings and giving up just 2 runs against the Orioles last night.

"I was OK," Byrd said. "I got better as the game went on. I thought I had better stuff in Chicago, but it just didn't work out for me. Baseball's a weird game. It really is."

His efforts weren't rewarded with a victory, as the Orioles erased the Red Sox's 3-2 edge through five with a two-spot in the sixth against relievers Manny Delcarmen and Ramon Ramirez.

Jason Bay put Boston on top in the first, stroking a two-out, two-run single to left off Baltimore starter Jason Berken for his 99th and 100th RBIs of the season. The O's halved the deficit one inning later, when Matt Wieters scored on a bases-loaded double-play ball off the bat of Cesar Izturis.

After reaching on a fourth-inning error by first baseman Ty Wigginton and claiming second with a rare stolen base, Lowell came around on Jason Varitek's RBI double (his 23rd of the season) to left-center that armed the Red Sox with a 3-1 advantage.

Baltimore responded with three unanswered runs over the next two frames to take a 4-3 lead into the bottom of the sixth.

Relieving Byrd, Delcarmen retired just one of the five batters he faced to open the sixth before being pulled, with his bases-loaded walk to Brian Roberts tying the game at 3. Ramirez replaced Delcarmen and promptly surrendered an RBI single to Felix Pie, but he bounced back to fan Nolan Reimold and Nick Markakis.

"He really saved the game right there," Reliever Billy Wagner said of Ramirez.

Boston plated the equalizer in the bottom of the frame, as Dustin Pedroia smashed a two-out comebacker off Matt Albers that ricocheted off the pitcher and toward third base, allowing pinch-runner Joey Gathright (who came in after Jason Varitek's single to start the inning) to dash home from third.

Pedroia's knock and Wagner's 1-2-3 seventh set the stage for Martinez, who lined the first pitch he saw from Baez to left-center for a bases-clearing three-run double.

You can read more here.

Also Today:

The Red Sox Captain has great respect for the Yankees Captain -

From an article in the New York Daily News today on both Derek Jeter and Tim Wakefield:

Like Jeter, Wakefield also has a special place in his team's history. With 175 wins for the Red Sox, Wakefield trails only Roger Clemens and Cy Young (192 each) on Boston's all-time list, and his 1,865 strikeouts rank second in Red Sox history only to Clemens' 2,590.

For those who would consider Wakefield's appearance on those lists as solely a product of a long tenure with the Red Sox, consider Jason Varitek, a September call-up in 1997 who has been Boston's regular catcher since 1998. With 1,226 hits, Varitek is the Red Sox's active leader. But the 37-year-old switch-hitter could only laugh about the possibility of matching Carl Yastrzemski's team record of 3,419 - he's not even in the top 10.

"Oh, no," Varitek said. "Jeter is a career .300 hitter - there's quite a bit of difference. What he's meant to that team and that organization, it's a great feat, and what he's meant to baseball."

To read the article, click here.

MLBN's Reynolds On Tek: "I want him calling games for me!"

September 9, 2009

Former three-time gold glove winning second baseman and current MLB analyst Harold Reynolds discusses the effect of the Victor Martinez trade on MLB-Network last night:

"I looked at it this way - when they made the trade, I said nice player, great player. But I didn't like the pick-up, because I thought it affected five guys in their lineup, and it does!

"First of all, when he plays first base, Youkilis has to move to third or he's got to move out to left field. And one of those guys - Lowell or Bay has to sit down. If you decided you're going to give him the day off and let him DH, then Big Papi's going to sit down. So all of a sudden you got to change everything with how this club is built, and built together, for this one guy.

"Now I know that when this all started, people were quick to say, 'Well, egos will go away because you know what, this is a playoff team and they are veterans'....No it's not!! You are affecting playing time! And any time you are affecting playing time, it WILL have an effect on your ballclub!

"Here's the record before the trade, and after the trade!"

(graphic of the team record with both Martinez and Varitek catching)

Before the trade: 60-42

After the trade: 19-16

Average before: .264

Average after: .270

Runs/Game before: 5.16

Runs/Games after: 5.54

"Here is the impact of Jason Varitek: Catch the ball - Call the game! Let's talk about their pitching staff because they STINK! And they have stunk since this trade. Look at this:"

(graphic of the Red Sox catchers record and ERA)

Martinez - Record: 11-7

Varitek - Record: 54-41

Martinez - CERA: 5.58

Varitek - CERA: 3.91

"They've spent all this time with one guy puttin' down the fingers, training them, 'this is what we're gonna throw, I'm gonna sit with ya, talk to ya'....and now they've scuffled. You bring in a new catcher and tell him to "learn our staff" in the middle of a pennant race and they have scuffled!

"I don't care if Varitek hits .100 or doesn't get a hit the rest of the year, I want him calling games for me.

"The Red Sox offense has never been a problem, they're gonna hit.

"The problem is, and I'll end it with this, the problem I had with the Red Sox at that time - they are going to HIT. They are playing in one of the best offensive ballparks in America - period! It's all about the pitching. And I think we've put too much worry about Jason Varitek and his offensive production. His job was to call the games. I think when he's consistently in there, consistently in the flow, he does it! and [now] it's tough!"

*Thank you to Sterling for the quick "heads-up" on the show!

And speaking of catching...

From WEEI this afternoon:

Drew hitting third, Varitek eighth as Martinez gets night off.

With Victor Martinez getting a night off, the Red Sox will have J.D. Drew hitting third, with Mike Lowell returning to the lineup as a third baseman for Wednesday's game against the Orioles. The Sox are looking to continue their season-long feast on the Orioles -- Boston is 12-2 (.857) against Baltimore this year, the team's second-best single-season record against the O's, behind only a 12-1 (.923) mark in 1987.

Tek will be catching Paul Byrd.

Today's Tek Stat:

Among regular catchers on the thirty major league teams, Jason Varitek is tenth in home runs with 14.

Carla Comes Through...

September 8, 2009

...with photos from Cellular Field this weekend!

Fan Carla Lockwood spent her birthday weekend in Chicago watching the Red Sox take on the White Sox, and in the process took some good photos of Tek to share.

To see Carla's photos, click here.

*Thank you to Carla and Happy Belated Birthday!

Today's Tek Stat:

Despite the "noise" to the contrary...

Opposing batter splits based on Sox catchers w/pitching staff -

Varitek: .254 BA / .322 OBP / .408 SLG

Martinez: .284 BA / .357 OBP / .464 SLG

Varitek: 8.1% BB / 21.3% K / 2.7% HR

Martinez: 11.6% BB / 16.9% K / 3.1% HR

*Thanks Dennis!

Tek On Wake: "He's Doing Everything He Possibly Can..."

September 6, 2009 - Have a happy and safe Labor Day weekend!

From Joe McDonald's column at the Providence Journal:

Tim Wakefield continues to showcase his courage. He's staving off a number of health issues, including a torn labrum in his shoulder, but more importantly a back injury that is causing weakness and numbness in his legs.

But even though he was clearly in discomfort, he returned to the mound on Saturday and pitched six innings. He allowed four runs on six hits as the White Sox received a stellar performance from their starter, Gavin Floyd, en route to a 5-1 victory at U.S. Cellular Field.

While Floyd's dominance helped the White Sox to victory, Wakefield's bravery on the mound was equally impressive.

His lack of mobility was quite evident in the bottom of the sixth when the White Sox' Chris Getz hit an easy two-out grounder to the right of first baseman Kevin Youkilis. Youkilis grabbed the ball and was looking to flip the ball to Wakefield.

Only he wasn't there. Limping heavily because of his back injury, he wasn't able to get to the bag ahead of Getz.

Wakefield retired the next batter, Alexei Ramirez, to end the inning and also his outing.

Jason Varitek always has a day off when Wakefield is on the mound.

Even though Varitek did not play, he was still wrapped in ice packs in order to keep his banged and bruised body somewhat healthy for the stretch run. He can empathize with the patriarch of the club.

"He's doing everything he possibly can to get himself on the mound," said Varitek. "That can probably be overlooked in a lot of ways. He's had to do a lot to get himself on the field."

The key for Wakefield moving forward is how he feels in the next few days. He knows the team needs his effective pitching right now and he wants to be a factor in October. With the way he pitched on Saturday, it sure looks like he's willing himself to do just that.

"It's a grind. But I'm here to go pitch and try to win games for us right now," he said as he gingerly limped out of the clubhouse.

To read Mr. McDonald's full column, click here.

To see larger versions of Kelly O'Connor's pics of Tek and Wake, click here & here.

Just A Couple Of Reminders...

September 5, 2009 - Have a happy and safe Labor Day weekend!

Monday is the deadline to purchase raffle tickets for the 2009 Beckett Bowl!

On September 10, 2009, the Josh Beckett Foundation will host the Third Annual Beckett Bowl at Lucky Strike in Boston. The Beckett Bowl includes a celebrity bowling tournament, live and silent auctions, as well as a post-event party and a live concert at the House of Blues.

On hand to help Josh and his Foundation will be his Sox teammates (including the captain), members of the Bruins, Patriots and Revolution as well as other Boston celebrities...and you too, if you are the lucky winner!

The winner's prize package includes:

- 4 bowler credentials with your family name or company's logo over the lane

- A personal coaching lesson for one frame by ace pitcher and bowler Josh Beckett

- 2 autographed Josh Beckett jerseys

- 2 tickets to a Red Sox game, enjoyed in Josh's personal seats

- parking passes, gift bags, t-shirts and more...

Tickets start at just $2.00 each and decrease for orders of more than 5 tickets.

Entry deadline is Monday, September 7th at 11:00 a.m.

The raffle is sponsored by Netraffle.org and the Celebrities for Charity organization.

Proceeds from The Beckett Bowl and the raffle benefit Children's Hospital Boston!

For more information on the raffle and to purchase your tickets, click here.

For more information on the event, click here.

To see a couple of photos from the 2007 Beckett Bowl, click here.

Also this weekend:

There's Still Time To Purchase Tickets...

...for the 2009 Jason Varitek Celebrity Putt-Putt Tournament!

The Tournament is just a week away (Monday, September 14th, 2009, from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m) at the Ferncroft Country Club in Middleton, Massachusetts.

Spectator tickets are still available and just $23.00 per person.

Money raised from the event will benefit the Saints Medical Center and the Celebrities for Charity Foundation.

To purchase your spectator tickets, click here.

You can check out the fun from previous Putt-Putt's here, here and here.

Tek Stat:

Hit Kings - (from an article in the New York Daily News)-

Boston Red Sox:

All-time leader - Carl Yastrzemski: 3419

Active leader - Jason Varitek: 1226

Click here to see the "Hit Kings" for all the Major League clubs.

Thursday Afternoon: Notes & Quotes

September 3, 2009

From Joe McDonald's blog at the Providence Journal:

There are some things Red Sox manager Terry Francona usually won't do during a game.

Pinch-hitting for Jason Varitek is one of them.

So when he did just that Wednesday night, sending up Casey Kotchmann with one out and two men on base and the Red Sox trailing by a run in the eighth inning, he was asked about his decision.

Francona explained that Varitek was 0-for-15 in his career against Rays reliever Grant Balfour, which is why he made the switch. Kotchman drew a walk to load the bases, and the Sox eventually scored the tying run on a wild pitch.

"It's a little different when you have more bodies [because of September callups]," said Francona. "I think you have to be somewhat realistic that the season takes a toll on [Varitek]. That's not a shot, that's being realistic. He . . . just gets beat up [playing behind the plate]. I don't want to run to start hitting for him because I don't know if that always helps us maybe as much as other people [think]."

From Bob Ryan's column in the Boston Globe earlier this week:

There is no more inconsequential sampling in American sport than one baseball game, or two, or five. Baseball was never meant to be football, a game played once a week and then dissected in detail the day after. Baseball is a game in which you’ve got to let go. Tomorrow is another day. But in this age of talk radio and Internet chats, people are encouraged to micro-manage on a daily basis. People are less forgiving.

Perspective and a common-sense approach to baseball are hard to find these days. Players don’t understand why fans don’t understand. Some, like the emotional and volatile Kevin Youkilis, say what they think. But others keep their counsel. What does 12-year veteran Jason Varitek think about all this? We don't know. He doesn’t say. But he appears to cope very well with the reality of a ballplayer’s life in Boston. Perhaps he should give a seminar.

And from Jack Perry's blog at the Providence Journal:

It didn't take long for former Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling to announce he's interested in the vacant U.S. Senate seat held by the recently departed Ted Kennedy.

Once the news hit the Red Sox clubhouse, there was a bit of friendly ribbing from Schilling's former teammates.

His former batterymate, Jason Varitek, did not want to discuss the subject.

"I don't tip my hand," he said with a smile.

Tek is Back As The Backstop At The Trop!

September 2, 2009 - (try and say that title three times fast!)

Jason will start at catcher tonight with Josh Beckett on the mound, said manager Terry Francona during his weekly conversation with the hosts of WEEI's "The Dale and Holley Show" today.

It's gotta be the cowbells...

In Josh Beckett's last start at Tropicana Field on April 30th, he gave up seven runs in 4-2/3 innings. In five career starts at the Trop, Beckett has a record of 1-3 with a 3.58 ERA.

But their is some good news...

Rays starting pitcher Matt Garza has a six-game winless streak and has not won at home in his last five starts.

And some not so good news...

Garza has a career record of 5-1 with a 2.93 ERA (20 earned runs in 61 1/3 innings).This season he is 2-0 with a 1.88 ERA against the Sox. His last start against the Sox was Aug. 4th in Tampa Bay. He did not get a decision but the Rays won 4-2 in 13 innings.

Jason is 2-for-13 (.154) against Garza. It's not much better for the back-up, Victor Martinez is 3-for-13 (.231).

Tek-nically Speaking...

Wagner's arrival in Boston carried with it two significant unknowns, even for the pitcher himself. He was facing a new league for the first time in his 15 years in the majors, and he was 11 months removed from Tommy John surgery.

It has been only two outings, but Wagner has shown he may be a force in the Red Sox bullpen setting up Jonathan Papelbon.

He has overcome pitching in the American League for the first time with a similarly basic approach. He throws exclusively what Martinez or Jason Varitek call. "Whatever they put down, I throw it," Wagner said. "They know what they're doing. I don't."

To read the rest, click here.

No Tek Tonight At The Trop!

September 1, 2009

Even though manager Terry Francona has mentioned in several interviews over the past month that his plan is to have Tek catch Jon Lester because of the "comfort level" between the two (see August 27th news below for his last mention of it on WEEI) ....

And even though Tek has great numbers against Rays pitcher Andy Sonnastine - he's hitting .462 (6-for-13) with a home run, four RBIs and two walks against Sonnanstine....

Tek is NOT in tonight's lineup.

Victor Martinez will be catching Jon Lester.

Francona said the Sox are "trying to mix and match and mix on the right nights."

What?

And later...

Manager Terry Francona said he was happy with the way Lester and Martinez worked together last time out.

"We're just trying to put out the best lineups," Francona said.

...Okay, so putting Tek out there with his .462 average against Sonnastine would not be putting out the best lineup?

...Or perhaps this is a defensive improvement? No. The Rays have stolen 11 bases in 12 attempts against Victor Martinez this season.

Things that make you go "hmmm".

No Game? No Problem!

August 31, 2009

Okay, so my good friend Becky Cooley decided I didn't need a night off...

So she went through her portfolio of photos and sent me several today to add to her album in the gallery. They are from last season's ALDS and this season's Sox vs. Angels series that took place in May.

To see the latest additions to her collection, click here.

*Becky, I am so happy to hear that you are feeling better! Stay strong!

New Pitchers Byrd & Wagner Help Sox Sweep Jays

August 30, 2009 - Afternoon Update

"Tek made it really comfortable for me. I didn't have to do too much, he just let the game come to me. He made it easy for me." -- New Sox pitcher Billy Wagner, during post-game comments.

Post-Game Notes:

It was a scene right out of the movies. A former major league right-hander spends the spring and early summer throwing batting practice to his son's team before he returns to the bigs with six shutout innings.

That's exactly what Paul Byrd did Sunday.

Byrd, making his first major league start since last September, held the Blue Jays to three hits and the Boston Red Sox completed a three-game sweep with a 7-0 victory over Roy Halladay and the Toronto Blue Jays.

"I'm throwing to a 13 and under team and the Red Sox called and I say, 'I don't know how long I'll take to get ready,"' said Byrd, still clutching the game ball and wearing the youth league hat in an interview room after the game.

Billy Wagner, acquired by Boston from the Mets for two players to be named Tuesday, pitched one scoreless inning with three strikeouts and one hit in his debut. Takashi Saito, the fourth pitcher, completed the five-hit shutout.

"When you have somebody new on that kind of stage, you want to see them succeed right away. Whether he had the results or not, the ball came out of his hand real well", said Tek about Wagner's stuff. "I got to play catch with him the other day, I didn't get to see him prior to the game, so I was going through my own 'eye-opening experience' (back there). He's got some life on his fastball, and has some depth in his breaking ball and it came out really good."

The win was the sixth in seven games for Boston, which moved 3 1/2 games ahead of Texas in the AL's wild-card race after the Rangers lost to Minnesota, 5-3, on Sunday.

Scoring single runs in each of the first four innings, the Red Sox sent Halladay (13-8) to his third consecutive loss for the first time since last April.

To see Billy Wagner's post-game interview, click here.

To see Jason's post-game interview, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"You heard how happy he was with Jason Varitek, and it's not the first time we've heard that from a pitcher coming over to this team!" -- Tom Caron, highlighting comments made by Billy Wagner during NESN's Post-Game Show.

"Everyone that has pitched to Jason knows that Jason has done his homework real well. The key thing right there - making a pitcher feel comfortable! Because you know that the pitcher out there does have some credibility, and you got Wagner out there, so I think once you go over the lineup and how you're going to pitch certain guys the only thing he's got to do is go out there and trust Tek." -- Jim Rice, responding to comments by Billy Wagner during NESN's Post-Game Show.

Also Today:

Seriously Clay, enough is enough!

Whether it's intentional or not, the last few interviews with Clay Buchholz have led to him seemingly blaming all of his poor pitching performances on Jason, all the way back to last season!

I thought it was just me, perhaps reading too much into his comments. But I have received several emails from fans over the past few weeks suggesting that I am not alone in this thinking.

His first comments were of the more 'subtle' variety in an attempt to compliment his new catcher. The second time, a little less so.

And after yet another interview (check out some of the comments left by readers!) where Buchholz can't keep from bringing Jason's name into the equation as the target for his past troubles once again, I was pleasantly surprised to find the writer of the East Bay Dirt Dog blog taking him to task for it!

It's about time somebody did!

To read this well-written and insightful blog, click here.

(yes, that is the photo of Tek lifting Clay into the air after his No-Hitter in September of 2007)

Red Sox Quilt Auction

August 30, 2009

The New England Quilt Museum is pleased to announce the auction on eBay of a unique work of quilt art and sports memorabilia created for the museum.

A quilt containing a center panel (bottom of photo) signed by 23 players from the 2009 Red Sox team, including:

Captain Jason Varitek, Tim Wakefield, Josh Beckett, Kevin Youkilis, David Ortiz, Hideki Okajima, Dustin Pedroia, J.D. Drew, Nick Green, Jed Lowrie, Jason Bay, Daniel Bard, Takashi Saito, and Jonathan Papelbon, as well as President and CEO Larry Lucchino, will be auctioned on eBay starting September 15.

The autographed fabric was then made into a quilt by nationally-renowned quilt artist Rosemary Bawn, who is known nationwide for her pictorial Red Sox works.

Featuring a panorama of Fenway Park, the piece was hand-quilted by the artist. Measuring 54” by 40”, the work took a total of 175 hours to complete. It incorporates fabrics that are reproductions from a quilt soon to be exhibited at the museum, made around 1910, with early twentieth century baseball players depicted in the fabric.

The New England Quilt Museum, located in downtown Lowell, Massachusetts, sponsors a wide range of activities to bring art education to children in public schools, make comfort quilts for hospitalized children in cooperation with Project Linus, help Scouts earn their badges, raise awareness for breast and cervical cancer, and a host of other projects.

The Museum sent the Red Sox Foundation a panel of fabric this spring, asking that the players and management sign the cloth to be made into a fundraising quilt, to further the Museum’s mission. The Foundation responded with virtually the entire team signing.

Massachusetts artist and longtime Sox fan Ms. Bawn transformed that signed panel into the quilt that is being auctioned, using her popular style, which combines traditional quilt motifs with images of players, fans, and Fenway Park. The auction of the quilt is expected to bring funding that will help the museum maintain its 150-year old building, as well as the community projects that they host.

You can also check out the the New England Quilt Museum's website here to see a larger version of this beautiful quilt and sign up to be notified of the specific time of the auction, and to be sent a direct link to the eBay page.

*Thank you to Jennifer Rogers, Founder of Crafters Quarters, LLC.

You can check out Crafters Quarters website here.

Tek's Plate Protection Saves The Game

August 29, 2009

"This is as good as it gets! You can't block the plate better than this!" -- NESN's Tom Caron, during the replay of the Tek's plate-blocking in the eighth.

"He's a warrior, man. He's intimidating when you see him walking out in his full gear and that's exactly why. He's a competitor and that's the reason the Red Sox still want him here, because he does stuff like that for the team. That's not going to show up in the stats or be in the box score tomorrow, but that’s as big a play as you could ask for tonight." -- Pitcher Daniel Bard during his post-game comments.

From the Boston Herald's John Tomase this morning:

The Sox overcame deficits of 3-0 and 5-3 before winning the game in the eighth on Casey Kotchman’s RBI groundout. Jonathan Papelbon then closed things out for his 31st save after loading the bases.

But in reality, the game had been won an hour earlier when Varitek stoned Snider cold.

With rain coming down in sheets and play certain to be halted, third base coach Nick Leyva frantically waved Snider from first on John McDonald's double to left. Shortstop Alex Gonzalez took Jason Bay’s relay and whirled a throw to the plate.

Like everything Gonzalez does in the field, it was effortless - and a dead strike.

"It all started with J-Bay getting the ball to Alex and Alex getting the ball to me and they were all good throws," Varitek said. "You can't do anything without a good throw."

Even with two good throws, Snider still arrived cleanly ahead of the ball. Varitek planted his left foot in front of the plate and stretched toward fair territory with his right to snare Gonzalez' throw.

"I felt like my foot was down solid," Varitek said. "I knew there was a chance."

Snider is no munchkin. The 245-pounder was coming full speed when he threw himself full force into his slide. What happened next defied the laws of physics.

Snider slammed into Varitek's shin guard with his ankle and foot . . . and bounced away like a pinball. He landed in a heap at a 45-degree angle from the point of contact and Varitek ambled over to apply the tag.

And from Ian Browne's column on RedSox.com:

After getting out of a bases-loaded jam in the first, Beckett wasn't quite so lucky in the second. The right-hander retired the first two batters of the inning, but then he got himself into a mess by walking Jose Bautista and McDonald. Hill rocketed a three-run homer to left, giving Toronto (58-68) a 3-0 lead.

The Red Sox got the rally they were looking for against Jays starter Scott Richmond in the fourth. With two on and one out, Drew smashed an RBI single to right. Varitek followed with a sacrifice fly to deep right, scoring Ortiz. Jacoby Ellsbury unloaded for a ground-rule double to the triangle area in right-center, tying the game.

It didn't stay tied for long, as Beckett made another two-out mistake in the fifth, and Barajas made him pay with a two-run homer to left.

"He left a breaking ball up to somebody that has a few home runs under his belt," said Varitek. "He misfired a fastball to Barajas for the second home run. I think with Josh, he's so powerful -- you catch a good part of the bat, the ball is going to go."

While Varitek had little trouble elaborating on Beckett, he was typically humble about his own heroics.

"You only survive off of good throws," said Varitek. "At that point of the game, you have to try and stay in there the best you can. I felt like my foot was down solid, so I knew there was a chance."

As it turned out, Snider had no chance.

"It looked like Snider could have broken his shin on that -- that was impressive," said Bard. "That's how they teach it. That was impressive. I'm not going to lie, especially since you know that ball was wet. The rain was coming down pretty good for like three pitches before that. That ball bounced around the corner and they got it in, and that was the play of the game if you ask me."

Hideki Okajima finished that eighth after the delay by retiring Aaron Hill on a flyout to right. Though he faced just one batter, Okajima (5-0) earned the win, thanks to that Boston rally in the bottom of the eighth.

It started with a leadoff walk by David Ortiz. J.D. Drew followed with the key hit of the inning, a one-out double to center that moved Ortiz to third.

Jays manager Cito Gaston opted for an intentional walk of Varitek, and Francona sent Kotchman up to hit for Gonzalez. The left-handed-hitting Kotchman, facing Shawn Camp, hammered a hard grounder that initially deflected off the glove of first baseman Lyle Overbay, giving Ortiz time to score what wound up to be the winning run.

There was more drama still. Papelbon came out throwing gas, and he struck out Adam Lind on 96-mph heat. Then there were back-to-back bloop singles by Overbay and Vernon Wells. Papelbon then grazed the button of Randy Ruiz's jersey, an incidental hit batter that loaded them up with just one out.

Papelbon then got nasty, striking out Rod Barajas and Snider to end the game. Papelbon has held opponents to one hit in 12 at-bats with the bases loaded this season, striking out nine.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"A lot of things have to work - timing, and you've got to have a clean cut-off, you've got to get a clean throw he can handle. But he's strong and he's got a pretty sturdy lower-half and we have seen him do that before and he's willing to do that and that's not an easy thing to do." -- Terry Francona during his post-game press conference.

"Unbelievable! His foot was maybe six inches in front of the plate and the foot didn't move. It didn't move an inch. It looked like Snider could have broken his shin. I guess he's OK, because he stayed in the game, but I looked at the replay and the way Snider hit, I'm guessing he's got some ice on it now." -- Daniel Bard at his locker last night after the game.

"Lesson learned. I went for the hook slide and at the last second his foot came out and kicked my foot out from going to the plate. It was a good move by him and something I'll definitely put in the memory bank. I needed to go in hard and straight instead of trying to go around him." -- the Blue Jays' Travis Snider after the game.

"On my end, you never win that battle!" -- Jason, when asked if he was concerned he may get injured when he planted his foot in front of the plate.

To see video of Tek's game-saving block, click here.

To see video of Tek's post-game interview, click here.

To see photos, click here.

Tek Stat:

For those that don't remember or don't know...

- Tek is the only catcher not named Doug Mirabelli to catch more than 100 games that Tim Wakefield has pitched!

Mirabelli caught 169 games for the knuckleballer, Tek caught 147 games.

- Tek has caught a Cy Young winner as well - twice!

Pedro Martinez in both 1999 and 2000.

Jason's current stats: AVG .222 | HR 14 | RBI 48 | DBL 22 | OBP .331 | SLG .425

Thursday Notes & Quotes...

August 27, 2009

- Tek out of the lineup AGAIN!

Junichi Tazawa is on the mound tonight but Varitek is on the bench!

He has hits in six of his last eight games and is batting .250 (6-for-24) right now.

- New Red Sox pitcher Billy Wagner's comments during his press conference today on getting ready for the American League...

"I've already talked to Tek. I told him, 'You just call the pitches and I'll throw it!' I have no idea about the American League so you just tell me what to throw and I'll do it!'"

- And his comments to NESN's Heidi Watney during the Pre-Game Show...

"I told Tek that he has to protect me and get me through all this because I know nothing about the American League. He said he's gonna work with me and I'm sure I'll be fine!"

- Terry Francona's comments on WEEI's Dale & Holley Show...

On where on the field is Victor Martinez best suited:

"I'm not quite sure how to answer that. In Cleveland he was catching about half of the time. If you put him back behind the plate every day right now, there will be a certain amount of wear and tear that would probably catch up to him. When you have a catcher who has the ability to hit .300 and drive in 100 runs with his bat that makes him more dangerous. He's a very good first baseman. "

On Jason Varitek catching Jon Lester and Josh Beckett:

"Tek's done a great job with those two. We try to put our team in the best position to win. I am very comfortable with Tek catching those guys, there's no getting around that. It may not be our best offensive lineup, but it's a lineup I'm comfortable with."

- Kevin Youkilis clarifies his comments...

"You know, there's just comments from a select group of fans every once in a while that are directed towards not even me, just towards my teammates," Youkilis said. “Lot of times I feel like I have to stick up for some guys.

"Maybe it's not my platform to do that. But sometimes you get frustrated when you have teammates that go out there and really work hard. Sometimes they’re not producing like they would like to, but they’re putting forth a hard effort. It’s not because they're not trying, it's 'cause they’re just not having success."

Accentuate The Positive!

August 26, 2009 - Afternoon Update

Youk's words worth their own post...

From an interview with the Boston Globe's Dan Shaughnessy:

"I'm just annoyed with the media as a whole," he said. "People write stuff about players on this team throughout the whole year and it's been going on for years and people just keep writing crap.

"One night we get beat and it's the end of the world and the next night we win big and it’s totally solid. We're back. It's up and down. One night we're getting bashed and the next time they're cheering. One guy has a bad game one night and they’re all over him and the next night he has a good game and he's a hero.

"It's a roller coaster ride for us and it's a roller coaster ride for the fans. Then when it gets expressed to the fans, then it's even more of a roller coaster. You guys don't have to hear what people say to us on the street. People have made comments to me. I've heard them say some things to my teammates.

"The problem with the game and all sports...I understand everything's not positive in this world. And negative stuff sells. But I come to the ballpark and go to a football game or basketball games. I don't even think you can take kids to a game anymore. There's so much negative yelling and screaming at players. People don't even root for their team anymore. They just root against the opposition's players. They're so angry at people."

...Youk is right, it's not just the media, it's the fans...you know the type: the armchair scout "what have you done for me lately" variety who hide behind anonymous screen names and type away on blogs, forums and message boards slamming and trashing players and making unfair assumptions and completely inaccurate statements concerning that player's heart, toughness, professionalism and their career as a whole. They don't think twice about questioning a player's work ethic or commitment to their team...a player they have never even met! And of course truth, statistics and actual fact never seem to factor into these discussions.

Dr. Paul Friday, the director of clinical psychology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center made these comments about "fan trash talkers" in an article that first appeared in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette in June of 2006:

"We have a degree of transference on sports figures," Dr. Friday said. "It's a way of vicariously going to battle. People can blog and send thoughts, and feel a self-induced empowerment."

He further stated that posters on Internet message boards hide behind their keyboards and write things they would never have the courage to say aloud in public. He said posters who write tasteless messages use (sports) and the rivalries between teams as a way of getting out their aggression in a non-violent manner. It's not necessarily a new phenomenon, just one that is more evident because of the instant communication that is available via the Internet.

Dr. Friday said that these posters are either too young to know better or are people whose brains never completely wired, which can happen due to a number of circumstances, including class and culture.

...So basically, the negative things you post is more of a reflection on you rather than the person/player you are posting trash about!

On a positive note, if you'd like to see a larger version of Kelly's photo above, click here.

Red Sox 6, White Sox 3

August 26, 2009

Wacky night on the field, but a win for the correct colored Sox!

For the Red Sox it was a nutty night that had a little bit of everything. A lead was lost on a Jon Lester strikeout that turned into a wild pitch. A popup was mishandled by reliever Hideki Okajima. A throw back to the mound by catcher Victor Martinez (who had replaced Varitek behind the plate for the seventh) sailed into center field. Third baseman Mike Lowell had a line drive slip out of his glove.

"[It was like] someone punched me in the stomach," said Francona of Okajima's mishap, "and before I could even look up I got hit with the other hand. The ball's going flying into center."

In spite of it all, the Red Sox won for the third time in four days, chipping their American League East deficit to the Yankees down to six games while maintaining a 1 1/2-game lead over the Rangers in the Wild Card standings.

"That's a big win for us," said Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek.

It was Jason Varitek's one-out double in the seventh (Tek was then pinch-run for by Nick Green) that set up pinch-hitter Victor Martinez' game-tying RBI single that got things going.

Then, after Bay's blast in the eighth, Martinez doubled in another run before Jacoby Ellsbury - who earlier broke Tommy Harper’s 36-year-old single-season franchise record for steals with his 55th - singled in the final run for the 6-3 finale.

Jonathan Papelbon closed things out for his 30th save.

Lester, turning in another strong performance, had a 2-1 lead with two outs in the seventh. Even with two on, it appeared as if he had escaped trouble, striking out Alexei Ramirez on an 0-2 curveball.

The only problem is that the pitch bounced, perhaps on the plate, and off of Varitek's leg for a wild pitch, tying the game.

"It's happened before, but not in that type of situation, especially with a guy like Tek behind home plate," said Lester, who went 6-2/3 innings, allowing three runs on four hits with six strikeouts. "Nine times out of 10 that ball stays in front of the plate and we get out of the inning."

Jayson Nix stung a liner off third baseman Lowell's glove for an infield hit that scored the go-ahead run. It was the 18th quality start of the season for Lester, surpassing ace Josh Beckett for the staff lead.

"I wasn't able to keep the ball in front of me on the one and the other ball just hit the top of Mikey's glove, but that ball was hit well," Varitek said. "Jonny threw the ball great."

And that's why the Red Sox were especially happy he didn't wind up with the loss.

To see Tek's post-game interview, click here.

Congratulations to Jacoby Ellsbury!

As Jacoby Ellsbury popped up out of his slide at third base and saw the umpire spreading his arms in the 'safe' sign, the Red Sox center fielder pumped his fist slightly, and a smile spread across his 25-year-old face.

Jacoby Ellsbury, in only his second year, had 55 stolen bases, breaking Tommy Harper's 36-year-old mark for the most stolen bases in a season. Ellsbury is now the record holder for a storied franchise that's been around over 100 years.

"It is pretty exciting," said Ellsbury. "You think of all the great Red Sox players that have played before me and to be on top in this category., it hasn't really hit me yet but I am sure that I will look back on the season and it is something that I will be proud of."

Ellsbury is so good because he has equal parts pure speed, and excellent instincts, Catcher Jason Varitek said.

"I think it's a combination of both. Jacoby's really fast, and he's got some good basestealing instincts also," Varitek said. "It's a great achievement that he had today."

Jason's current stats: AVG .224 | HR 14 | RBI 47 | DBL 22 | OBP .332 | SLG .428

Sunday: Picture This!

August 23, 2009

I have added several new photos to the gallery - found here and there and from different times and different years!

The best place to find them all in one place is right here.

And if you keep scrolling, you will see Kelly O'Connor's latest as well!

(Oh...and yes, I know there are three of the same photo in the "last uploads" section...it's okay, that photo was placed in three different albums within the gallery).

Notes & Quotes from last night's game:

"I just followed the catcher's lead," Tazawa said through a translator, applauding the work of Jason Varitek. "I knew I would allow a couple of hits but I didn't want to give in. I didn't allow runs (because) I was able to locate my pitches to the corners." -- Boston Herald.

"He did a good job. He did a real good job," catcher Jason Varitek said. “You can’t say much more than that." -- Providence Journal.

Perhaps the defining at-bat came against Alex Rodriguez in the third inning. Rodriguez had ruined Tazawa's major-league debut on Aug. 7, breaking a scoreless tie with a home run to left center, on a hanging curveball by Tazawa.

Despite the way Rodriguez mashed that pitch, Tazawa and Varitek didn't shy away from Tazawa's hybrid slider/curveball this time. With two runners on, two out and a 1-2 count to the man occupying ninth place on the all-time home run list, Tazawa threw the breaking pitch three times. He missed twice, then froze Rodriguez for strike three with his third straight breaking ball. Inning over.

"I remember sitting there thinking, 'Be careful.' You go one too many times and he'll hunt it," Francona said. "And he actually threw one, I think 2-2, that was close and didn’t get it, and then came back and threw another one. That was an interesting sequence." -- Providence Journal.

"We had people come up with big hits today," said Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek. "You need those, and we made big pitches to complement the big hits." -- MLB.com.

"I think our identity is starting to solidify itself," Jason Varitek said Saturday, in the wake of that 14-1 win. -- CBS Sportsline.com.

Tek Comes In For The Seventh, Hits A Home Run In The Ninth...

August 22, 2009

...and the Red Sox tried to mount a rally that sadly, would end all too soon - Final score: Yankees 20, Red Sox 11.

Jason, who had missed three games because of muscle spasms in his neck, replaced Victor Martinez and hit a solo home run in the ninth inning. Terry Francona planned to have Tek catch today and tomorrow night, but brought him in during last night's game after Victor Martinez fouled a ball off his left toe in an earlier at-bat. The score at that time was 15-7 Yankees.

Jason's homer (his 14th of the season) gave him his 700th RBI, making him the 15th Sox player to reach the milestone!!

Congratulations to Jason!

And congratulations to Jacoby Ellsbury! With a stolen base in the first inning, after walking to open the game, Jacoby Ellsbury tied a 36-year-old Sox record: for the most steals in a season. Jacoby's 54th this season tied Tommy Harper (1973) for the club record. Jacoby's steal last night was his ninth against the Yankees this season. Only Rickey Henderson has had more against New York in one season since 1954, with 12 in 1983 and 1992. (Boston Globe)

Also This Morning:

Thank you to Joshua Trudell for the great photo of Tek in his new gear (above) - especially since game photos have been so few and far between lately! Joshua took more great photos of the Captain from the Rangers series last week, which you can see here.

You can see more of Joshua's Red Sox photos on his Flickr page here.

*Thank you also to my eagle-eyed friend Sterling!

Varitek vs. Posada: "Catchers Unmasked"

August 21, 2009

"I don't think they get the credit they deserve. I believe they are taken for granted, especially in this great rivalry. But I've been involved in coaching for 34 years and I never seen anything like these two guys when it comes to catching, leading, work ethic. The fact that they've been matched up against each other for so long and have had the success they've had, winning multiple championships...I believe they are in a class of their own."-- Gary Tuck, bullpen coach for the Red Sox and former catching coordinator for the Yankees.

"Neither guy likes to draw attention to themselves. They both are from the same mold. They don't want the fanfare. The irony is that Posada doesn't get enough credit for the way he handles pitchers and Varitek doesn't get credit for his offense, which is better than his numbers show."-- John Flaherty, YES Network play-by-play man and former Yankees catcher who worked with Tek in spring training, 2006.

Excerpts from an excellent article written by Bill Burt in The Eagle Tribune today:

It has been obscured in the world renowned Red Sox-Yankees rivalry.

The thrilling victories, the agonizing losses and everything else in between have given fans more excitement and drama than they deserve. Here's one matchup that we haven't properly paid homage to:

Jason Varitek vs. Jorge Posada.

Posada, 38, took over as the everyday catcher midway through 1997. Varitek, 37, took over a year later, before the All-Star break.

With respect to Hall of Famer Carlton Fisk and the deceased Thurman Munson, the catching cornerstones of the oftentimes ugly Red Sox-Yankees matchup in the 1970s, this weekend's starting catchers might be the best ever in the modern era in this historic rivalry.

Some might disagree, but not somebody with special insight.

"I have no problem with that statement at all," said third-year Red Sox bullpen coach Gary Tuck, who is also the organization's "catching" coordinator, a position he held for the Yankees for several years in the 1990s and early 2000s.

The roads they traveled were very different.

Varitek was acquired July 31, 1997 in one of the best deals in the franchise' history. Out of the pennant race, the Sox sent Heathcliff Slocumb to Seattle for Varitek and Derek Lowe.

Varitek, an All-American at Georgia Tech, had been a first round pick in 1993 and 1994.

"I scouted Jason in college when I was with the Yankees," said Tuck. "He had a reputation, even back then, for preparation and work ethic."

In 1990, the Yankees drafted Posada, a native of Puerto Rico, as a second baseman.

It was in Double-A, with guidance from Tuck, the then-Yankees catching instructor, Posada was turned into a catcher.

Jason is Navy Seal," said Tuck. "He's programed like a computer. His recall is second to none. His prep dwarfs everyone's. I really believe he is the most selfless guy in the game.

"Jorge isn't the captain, but he might as well be. He doesn't do as much when it comes to writing things down as Jason does, but he works on feel. He has a great feel for the game. And nobody outworks him. Nobody."

Both get high marks for playing with pain.

Tuck said, "The injuries these two have played with is amazing. Jorge has played through some tough knee injuries and Jason's had elbow and shoulder problems that would have forced other catchers to miss a series or longer. The most you would see either one of these guys out is a game or two."

Over the last 12 seasons the Sox and Yankees have played each other 200 times, but the two catchers have had only one conversation lasting a few minutes.

They're just not sure when or where it happened.

"I believe it was at the All-Star game in 2003," recalled Varitek, of their brief discussion during the Home Run Derby at U.S. Cellular Field in Chicago.

"I just remember having a nice conversation about how he was doing," said Posada. "It was nice to chat a little bit with him because we had never really spoken before that."

The reason for the lack of communication is obvious.

"It's sort of hard, you know, being that I'm on the Red Sox and he's on the Yankees," said Varitek. "If you're asking me why (we don't talk a lot), I'd probably say that has more to do with it than anything."

Posada concurred.

"I say 'Hi' to a lot of guys from a lot of teams, but I don't sit there behind the plate and have conversations during a game," said Posada. "There is an intensity to the Yankees and Red Sox, which has been going on a long time. Personally, I like to stay out of peoples' way."

Jeter and Garciaparra appeared to be best friends (they weren't) when one was standing on second base and other was at shortstop.

But Varitek and Posada don't acknowledge the other guy.

"I know Jorge really well and he is really an outgoing guy, very funny," said Flaherty. "I don't know Jason as well, but he's definitely got a tougher exterior. He's all business out there. He's not really an approachable guy."

When each was cornered during the last homestand in Boston, you'd have thought Varitek and Posada were best friends.

"There's a reason the Yankees have been as good as they have been since I've been going against them," said Varitek. "Jorge plays the game right. He has an extreme respect for the game, which you can't help but notice. And his bat is obviously pretty special and he's durable.

"Jorge doesn't get the credit he deserves as a catcher. You can tell he is very good at handling pitchers. ... I respect the way he plays, as I do with their shortstop (Jeter) and closer (Mariano Rivera)."

Posada brought out the sweet sauce in his breakdown of his Red Sox adversary.

"The thing I notice is that pitchers love him. And that means a lot as a catcher," said Posada. "He's the guy that seems to keep that team together. He's a captain for a reason ... I respect him greatly."

Varitek has one year left on his contract and Posada has two more years remaining, maybe then they'll have a beer together?

"We'll see," said Posada. "Maybe we will have dinner some time when we're old and gray. I'd like that."

Varitek smiled when told of Posada's answer.

"I don't know," said Varitek, taking time to think. "We might. We'd probably have a lot to talk to about."

They could talk about experiences only those two could understand.

To read the full article and interview, click here.

Injury Update:

According to the Boston Herald's Clubhouse Insider this afternoon -

Jason will sit one more game to shake off the stiffness he's felt in his neck, but Terry Francona says he will catch both Saturday (Tazaway) and Sunday (Beckett).

Also Today:

Curt Schilling and Lou Merloni were co-hosts on WEEI's The Big Show on Thursday. The two former Red Sox players discussed the Red Sox catching situation.

Curt: "The big thing for me is that Jason Varitek is here. If he is not catching everyday, he still has an impact and I think that gets lost in the shuffle...his interaction with Victor, his interaction with the pitching staff."

Jason is, and always has been a team first guy. I think if he acted in a way that was contradictory to that, I would be one of the more shocked people on the planet."

Lou: "I can tell you that Varitek has had a shoulder (injury) for about a month and a half and the neck (injury) for about month. This has been bothering him now for the last month and he has been playing because deep down he realizes, just like last year, 'my offense will struggle, but I can still bring things to the team defensively when I catch these big guns.'"

To listen to the complete audio segment, click here.

Thursday: Injury Update

August 20, 2009

Tek out again...

Jason is not in the starting lineup again tonight.

He was scratched on Tuesday with neck spasms and did not play on Wednesday for the same reason (see news below).

From the Boston Herald's Clubhouse Insider:

Varitek reiterated that he could play tonight if absolutely needed, but said he and the team were taking the cautious approach. Varitek’s still not sure if he’ll have an MRI when he returns to Boston.

"I don't know what we have to do to find out, but we're not going to do it in Canada," Varitek said. "I'm not going to leave the team. We'll figure out something this homestand as far as what we're going to do. And if it gets better, we'll do it later."

Varitek said he's feeling marginally better, two days after locking up and having trouble moving his head.

To read the complete "Clubhouse Insider", click here.

To see a larger version of the screen capture above, click here.

*Let's hope he gets better and back out there real fast!!

Tek Stats:

From NESN this afternoon -

According to Hit Tracker, the longest home run by a Red Sox player this season so far came from the Captain: his 454-footer on May 28th to the upper deck of the Minnesota Twins' Target Field.

From a football perspective (since the 2009 NFL season is just around the corner): his home run traveled the length of one football field plus the opponents' 49-yard line of a second field!

It was the first of two home runs that Tek hit in that memorable game that the Sox won 3-1.

Made even more memorable by Tek's ejection from the game, along with Terry Francona by umpire Todd Tichenor in the bottom of the seventh. Twins catcher Mike Redmond and his manager, Ron Gardenhire, had already been ejected by Tichenor in the top of the seventh.

To see a series of photos from that game, click here (12th row down).

Tek A Late Scratch From Tuesday's Lineup

August 18-19, 2009 - Wednesday Afternoon Update (see below)

"Tek is one of the toughest guys in baseball, but his neck got the best of him tonight!" -- Frank Viola, former Red Sox pitcher and NESN baseball analyst tonight.

From Heidi Watney on NESN's Tuesday Pre-Game Show:

"At about 3:30 p.m. today, Jason Varitek and trainer Paul Lessard walked into Terry Francona's office. Varitek was clearly in pain. A short while later he was scratched from the lineup.

"Varitek told me that his neck is 'completely locked up' and Terry Francona said Varitek has been able to play through a lot of pain this year, but with his neck spasms today, he just couldn't go."

From Terry Francona's interview:

"He's been battling the neck for two months. I think he might be the only guy in the league that hasn't missed time, or the only guy with what he's had happen (with neck issues) has been able to stay out there. And today, the way it's been grabbing him I didn't think it was fair to play him. He'll have it looked at today, he'll have it worked on by our medical people and hopefully let it settle down as opposed to playing him and making it worse."

Tek Stats:

WEEI's Alex Speier, prior to the game...

This is the third time that Beckett will start with a catcher other than Varitek this year. In the prior two starts, when paired with George Kottaras, he is 0-2 with a 10.97 ERA. When paired with Varitek, Beckett is 14-2 with a 2.52 ERA. Varitek caught all of Beckett’s starts in 2008, and caught all but one of his starts in 2007. In '07, Beckett allowed two runs in eight innings (2.25 ERA) in the only game caught by Doug Mirabelli, and had a 3.32 ERA in 29 games when paired with Varitek.

Wednesday Afternoon Update:

From Terry Francona's interview on the Dale & Holley Show:

On Jason Varitek's injury: "This isn't something new, this is something he has played with all year. It just spasmed up on him, like we've all had. He couldn't look left. Knowing he's tough enough to get through the game, but it's probably going to set him back 3-4 days so we elected not to play him. He wanted to play, thought it wasn't in his best interest."

To listen to the segment, click here.

And from Tek himself to MLB.com's Erika Gilbert:

Jason Varitek still doesn't know exactly what caused the neck spasms that have kept him out of Boston's lineup for two successive games, but he is feeling slightly better.

"It just spasmed up, and it hasn't had a whole lot of movement," Varitek said Wednesday. "I had it adjusted yesterday. I'm a little better today, and I have a little better range. I'm a lot looser than I was yesterday."

The catcher said he's been dealing with soreness in his neck "at different ranges" for a couple of months.

"But not to where I couldn't move my head," he added.

Despite the pain and lack of motion in his neck, Varitek was still available off the bench as the team's backup catcher on Wednesday. He assured reporters he could play if he needed to, but he was not sure if he would be well enough to be back in the starting lineup Thursday.

"I don't know," Varitek said. "It's got to advance from today, but I can play with just about anything, so I can play if I need to."

Varitek has consulted a number of people on the neck issue, and when asked if he had seen a chiropractor, massage therapist, etc., he offered this simple statement:

"All of the above! Trainers, ice, heat -- I don't smell real good right now. After the adjustment I got yesterday, hopefully it'll just calm the spasm down."

To read more, click here.

The Josh Beckett "Beckett Bowl" Raffle

August 17, 2009

Here is your chance to win a lane and much more at the Josh Beckett 2009 Beckett Bowl!

On September 10, 2009, the Josh Beckett Foundation will host the Third Annual Beckett Bowl at Lucky Strike in Boston. The Beckett Bowl includes a celebrity bowling tournament, live and silent auctions, as well as a post-event party and a live concert at House of Blues.

On hand to help Josh and his Foundation will be his Sox teammates (including the captain), members of the Bruins, Patriots and Revolution as well as other Boston celebrities...and you too, if you are the lucky winner!

The winner's prize package includes:

- 4 bowler credentials with your family name or company's logo over the lane

- A personal coaching lesson for one frame by ace pitcher and bowler Josh Beckett

- 2 autographed Josh Beckett jerseys

- 2 tickets to a Red Sox game, enjoyed in Josh's personal seats

- parking passes, gift bags, t-shirts and more...

Tickets start at just $2.00 each and decrease for orders of more than 5 tickets.

Entry deadline is Monday, September 7th at 11:00 a.m.

The raffle is sponsored by Netraffle.org and the Celebrities for Charity organization.

Proceeds from The Beckett Bowl and the raffle benefit Children's Hospital Boston!

For more information on the raffle and to purchase your tickets, click here.

For more information on the event, click here.

To see a couple of photos from the 2007 Beckett Bowl, click here.

*Thank you to Jon from CFC.org!

Sunday: Notes & Quotes

August 16, 2009

On those stolen bases in last night's game...

"You can just probably blame it on me. I'll take full responsibility for their ability to run. I have two things: try and get hitters out, and make a good throw. The rest is out of my hands.

"Keep them off base, that's the best way to do it. I can't really answer that question. Just go out there and try and execute, make a good throw.

"That's some of the best throws I can make. They might not be good enough." -- Jason's post-game comments last night.

Others beg to differ...

"That's not a fair statement. There's things we ask 'Tek to do, like if we want a strikeout and don't want him to come out of a crouch -- sometimes we'll concede a base. If you get behind, it can snowball." -- Terry Francona reacts to Jason's last comment.

"I've gotta pay more attention to it. I've got to not rely on the coaches so much. You've got to [also] keep them from getting on base." -- Brad Penny during his post-game comments.

"In defense of Jason Varitek, because he's getting the brunt of this, I timed Brad Penny's time to home plate [tonight] and it was 1.4 - 1.6 seconds per pitch....Johnny Bench isn't getting these guys stealing with that much time!" -- Buck Showalter, ESPN's 'Baseball Tonight' analyst and former Texas Rangers manager.

"I believe both 8-stolen bases games were on Brad Penny, that tells you that Mr. Penny has to take some of the obligation himself. What you've got to do is alter your head look, speed up your process, throw in a slide-step every once in awhile...there's more to pitching than just throwing the ball to the plate. The problem is when you get a team like Texas, as Terry [Francona] mentioned (in his post-game comments) when you got guys who can flat-out run, they're going to take advantage of the situation, and you're gonna have an 8-stolen bases game! -- Frank Viola, NESN analyst and former Red Sox pitcher on NESN's Pre-Game show today.

"A lot of [fans] have been throwing around the 'Jason Varitek numbers' after the game - how bad it is that he's only thrown out nine runners all year, but I look at last night's game and if you want to talk about that, he really didn't have a chance on a lot of those. You go to the pitch-out, if you can't have a chance on a pitch-out, then you have to look at the pitcher and how he's holding guys on and how he's delivering the ball. I think it's a complete package." -- Rob Bradford, WEEI's Red Sox Insider on the radio this morning.

"It's definitely an area they have to improve on, but I think it's more of an organizational philosophy which says, 'concentrate on the hitter, make sure you get the hitter first'. It's not something that is going to change overnight, and I believe it's the same organizational philosophy that the Cleveland Indians had when John Farrell was there. And if you look at Victor Martinez' and the number of runners he's thrown out, well it's not that great either. So you can tell that the emphasis is on 'concentrate on the hitter'...slide-steps - they're really not big on that, a couple of guys do it, but most of them don't. A lot of them are not really quick to the plate, Tazawa is, but other guys aren't and Penny is terrible." -- the Boston Globe's Nick Cafaro during his guest appearance on NESN's Pre-Game Show.

And even some Red Sox fans weigh in...

"While it is fair to say that Varitek has struggled mightily with stolen bases, one thing that is tough to quantify is how many steals are actually against the pitcher. For example, I counted at least 2, if not 3 steals last night where even if Varitek had made a good throw, he had no shot of catching the runner. Then of course there were the unsuccessful pitch-outs, which is one of the most frustrating things I've seen. And I remember watching the game against TB when Crawford ran wild, and in most of those situations Crawford was more than halfway to second or third before the ball even reached home.

"My point is, we can take away from Varitek because one pitcher on the staff (Lester) does a good job of holding runners on base. But is it truly fair to penalize Varitek when our other pitchers do not do a good (and in the case of Penny, a really bad) job?

"Caught Stealing is kind of like RBIs; if guys aren't getting on base, it's tough to get one's RBI numbers up. Likewise, if the majority of your pitchers are doing a [bad] job checking the runners, you aren't giving the catcher a fair chance to get his CS numbers up. I feel this is partly a team stat and it is up to Farrell to emphasize this with the pitching staff." -- HA

"The Red Sox really don't care to defend the run. Just look at the number of pitchouts, only 8 last year, 2nd lowest in the AL. Penny acounts for like 27 of Tek's Stolen bases. I doubt V-Mart does much better. The Tampa Bay Rays stole 10 of 11 bases against V-Mart when he was in Cleveland, and thats without Penny." -- Paul

"Stolen bases don't always translate into runs for the team that swipes them. Example: for all the talk of Carl Crawford's record 6 Stolen Bases against Penny, Tek and the Sox last May 3rd, he only scored two runs." -- TW

As to the hit-by-a-pitch to Ian Kinsler...

"You don't want to see that happen to anybody. First and foremost, you want to make sure he's okay. He got a little riled up, whatever, and he called over (to the clubhouse) and apologized for it. But in no way, shape or form do you want to see someone get hit in the head... and in that situation nobody was trying to hit anybody." -- Jason during his post-game comments last night.

"It's just something that's scary. You never want to be a part of something like that. You're not thinking it's intentional or unintentional in the process. Me and Varitek had words, we had a chance to talk later and put it behind us.

"We talked after the game on the phone and everything is fine. I understand it was not on purpose, it's just the way you react when the ball is thrown at your head. They were throwing inside on me all day yesterday." -- Texas Rangers second baseman Ian Kinsler during an interview today.

And leave it to Dan Shaughnessy (yes, I said Dan Shaughnessy!) to come up with the odd, off-topic, but humorous Quote of the Day, from his column...

"When you see Jason Varitek interviewed in front of his locker after games, he appears to be wearing one of the "Snuggies" advertised on late-night television."

You can view some of Jason's post-game interview here.

Also Today:

Game Notes...

- Jason is out of today's line-up (day game after a night game).

- After today's game, the Red Sox head to Toronto for a three-game series that starts Tuesday.

And:

Congratulations...

The Little League team from Peabody, Massachusetts beat Lincoln, Rhode Island yesterday by a score of 11-7 after Peabody Western's Matt Hosman hit a walkoff grand slam in the seventh inning!

With the win, the team will represent the New England Region in the Little League World Series.

On Friday, Peabody Western will take on Texas West, the Southwest Region Champs, in Williamsport, PA.

Did you know that both Jason Varitek and Jason Bay played in the Little League World Series along with eight other current Major League players?

Tek (above) played in the 1984 Little League World Series when he was 12 years old. His Altamonte Springs team lost in the finals to Seoul, South Korea by a score of 6-2. He played shortstop, third base and catcher in his three LLWS games.

Jason Bay played in the 1990 Little League World Series for the Trail Team from British Columbia. His team came in third place.

You can check out more pics of Tek from his Little League playin' days here.

Red Sox 8, Rangers 4

August 15, 2009

"He's fit right in! I mean I don't what more to say than that. He's a good man. He swings the bat well and gives up some versatility. That was a huge hit.-- Jason in his post-game comments about Victor Martinez.

A different perspective...

From an article in the Fort Worth Star Telegram this morning:

Ready or not, it's pennant race time.

It's Aug. 15th and, as baseball tradition has it, today is when the pennant races officially begin. Unless my eyes — and, yes, the ol' ticker — are even worse off than I thought, the Rangers and Red Sox got a head start on things 24 hours early.

This one had that jaw-clenching, teeth-grinding, nail-biting pennant race feel from beginning to end, and for good reason. These two teams are each not only trying to make up ground in their own divisions, but at the same time, battling each other head to head for the American League wild-card spot.

Watching your closer cough up a career-high six runs, five with two outs in the ninth, is enough to shake any team's confidence.

Until Francisco's stunning ninth-inning collapse — shocking because the Rangers hadn't lost a game at home in which they were leading after eight innings since September 2007, a remarkable 72-game winning streak — this one had followed the same winning formula the Rangers have used all season, with just one slight glitch.

That was also a bullpen meltdown when Eddie Guardado, the Rangers' situational lefty, relieved a worn-out Kevin Millwood with two outs in the sixth and promptly served up a game-tying two-run homer to David Ortiz, blowing a 2-0 lead Millwood had battled to hold since Michael Young’s two-run homer off Lester in the first.

A 4-2 lead going into the eighth with the way the back end of the Rangers' bullpen has been pitching this season? Money in the bank, right?

Except the check bounced at the worst possible time.

C.J. Wilson did his part, breezing through the eighth with only a walk and handing off the two-run lead to Francisco.

That's when the fun started for the multitude of Red Sox fans at The Ballpark.

Ortiz doubled and Jason Varitek hit a slow bouncer that second baseman Omar Vizquel speared moving to his right, but his lob throw — all he could get on it — to first baseman Hank Blalock was a hair too late.

Jacoby Ellsbury singled up the middle to cut it to 4-3, but Francisco fanned Chris Woodward, setting up the strangest play of the night.

Dustin Pedroia slammed one deep to left, just over the glove of a leaping David Murphy at the wall. But Murphy grabbed the carom barehanded and fired it to Young, whose relay throw nailed a sliding pitcher-pinch runner Clay Buchholz at the plate for the second out.

"I felt good when that happened," Washington said. "Frankie had had pretty good success against [Victor] Martinez."

Not this time. Martinez fouled off pitch after pitch before finally lining the ninth pitch of the at-bat, a 95 mph fastball, into the right-field corner for a two-run double.

Jason Bay's RBI single and J.D. Drew's two-run home run after that was just gravy for the Red Sox.

"That's my closer," Washington said with a shrug, referring to Francisco. "His job was to get us three outs. Once he was in the game, he's the best I had out there. He just didn't get it done, that’s the bottom line."

To read the rest, click here.

To see video of Tek's interview, click here.

For a game photo and a screen cap with quotes from Tek's post-game interview, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

From WEEI's Dennis & Callahan Show with phone-in guest Curt Schilling on Friday -

D&C: "I thought the interesting thing was how Edwin Jackson was a bad ass until Tek grabbed him and then suddenly he went limp. Then when Tek let him go to turn his attention on someone else, he became a bad ass again."

Curt: "That generally happens to most human beings when Tek's around. A lot of people get 'beer muscles' out there, and Tek is generally 'The Equalizer'....you see that Tek's kinda like a magnet out there, things kind of bounce away from him in a pile like that."

To see Kelly O'Connor's photos of Tek from the brawl, click here (second row).

"That's What I Want To Be"

August 14, 2009

Excerpts from an interview & article about Victor Martinez for ESPN.com today:

Playing first base at Camden Yards nearly two weeks ago, sharing the field with strangers and wearing the same colors but with a different team name on his chest, Victor Martinez envisioned a goal, in what was the first game of his Boston career.

Down the line, he saw Jason Varitek -- the gold standard of catching preparation and fundamentals -- effortlessly blocking balls in the dirt. It wasn't just the way Varitek stopped them; it was the control he had over them. Once the game ended, Martinez -- his first time outside of the Indians' organization since he was 17 years old -- turned to Red Sox bullpen coach Gary Tuck.

"That's what I want to be," Martinez said to Tuck.

It wasn't about being the starting catcher or taking Varitek's job; it was about bettering himself, even on a difficult day when everything was foreign. On July 31, Martinez was traded to Boston from Cleveland, where he spent 13 years -- almost half of his life.

When Martinez was traded, there was the tricky situation of cohabiting with Varitek. The move was widely characterized as Martinez being the club's possible catcher of the future (he has a team option for the 2010 season; Varitek has both a team and player option for 2010). It could have been a bit awkward, but both men have been professional about it.

When Boston pitching coach John Farrell was running the Indians' farm system, he oversaw Martinez and knew how special he was. When told his current team was acquiring the 30-year-old catcher, Farrell had no doubt that Martinez would fit in. And Farrell has watched how active Martinez has been in pitchers' meetings, asking important questions, eager to learn from Varitek.

To read the rest, click here.

*Note: There are some rather surprising and questionable comments in the article from rookie pitcher Clay Buchholz, given the fact that Tek not only guided him through a No-Hitter, but that Tek also has such a excellent (league-wide) reputation for his handling of a pitching staff.

Today's Tek Stat...

Jason is 1 RBI shy of reaching 700 career RBI's!

There's Still Time To Purchase Tickets...

August 13, 2009 - Afternoon Update

...for the 2009 Jason Varitek Celebrity Putt-Putt Tournament!

The Tournament is scheduled for Monday, September 14th, 2009, from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. at the Ferncroft Country Club in Middleton, Massachusetts.

Spectator tickets are still available and just $23.00 per person.

Money raised from the event will benefit the Saints Medical Center and the Celebrities for Charity Foundation.

To purchase your spectator tickets, click here.

You can check out the fun from previous Putt-Putt's here, here and here.

...for the Josh Beckett Foundation's "2009 Beckett Bowl"!

On September 10, 2009, the Josh Beckett Foundation will host the Third Annual Beckett Bowl at Lucky Strike in Boston. The Beckett Bowl includes a celebrity bowling tournament, live and silent auctions, as well as a post-event party and a live concert at House of Blues.

On hand to help Josh and his Foundation will be his Sox teammates, members of the Bruins, Patriots and Revolution as well as actors and a celebrity chef or two!

Proceeds from The Beckett Bowl benefit Children's Hospital Boston!

For more information and to purchase tickets to attend, click here.

To see a couple of photos from the 2007 Beckett Bowl, click here.

...for the Mike Lowell Foundation "Night At The Copa" event!

Join Mike Lowell and his teammates for an exclusive event called,"A Night at the Copa" on Sunday, August 30, 2009. The event will start one hour after the Red Sox vs. Blue Jays game.

This charitable fundraising event includes casino games, great food, drinks and music at the House of Blues.

Proceeds benefit the Mike Lowell Foundation's charitable programs serving at-risk families struggling with cancer and inner city youth baseball.

For more information and to purchae your tickets, click here.

Now, I don't have any photos from past Copa events...

but click here for photos the last time the Sox kicked up their heels for Mike!

Red Sox 8, Tigers 2

August 13, 2009

Josh Beckett turned in another strong outing to become the first 14-game winner in the majors this year, and Jason Bay went 3-for-3 with a two-run homer, as Boston crushed Detroit, 8-2, in the third installment of a four-game set from Fenway Park.

The Tigers' first hit against Beckett was a long one, as Carlos Guillen unloaded for a solo shot to right to open the fifth.

Marcus Thames also homered.

"Josh is a flyball pitcher," said Tek at his locker after the game. "Both home runs were mistakes, but he recovered."

But no sooner had Detroit (59-54) chipped into the lead than the Red Sox opened it right back up again. They erupted for a five-spot in the bottom of the fifth. Mike Lowell (RBI single), Casey Kotchman (RBI single) and Jason Varitek (bases-loaded walk) accounted for some of the damage.

Mike Lowell and Jason Bay accounted for six hits in seven at-bats in the game.

"Mikey has been swinging the bat well for a long time," Tek said. "J-Bay, it's nice to get him going. He's having good at-bats. Even his outs are good."

With a seven-run cushion, Beckett then put it in cruise control.

"It's huge when you can rely on a guy to do that, especially where it gives us a chance to set up our bullpen for matchups," said Tek.

Hideki Okajima pitched a perfect eighth, striking out two, and Ramon Ramirez did the exact same thing in the ninth.

Zach Miner (5-3) took the loss after yielding five runs on seven hits in 4 2/3 innings for Detroit, which fell for the seventh straight time to Boston.

It was announced prior to the game that Tigers pitcher Rick Porcello and Red Sox first baseman Kevin Youkilis would both be suspended five games and fined an undisclosed amount for their actions in Tuesday's benches-clearing brawl. Porcello decided to appeal, but Youkilis started serving his suspension Wednesday. Tigers pitcher Edwin Jackson, who was held back from entering the fray by Tek, was also fined an undisclosed amount.

To see photos from this week's games, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"Mikey wants to play, of course. Mikey wants to be out there every day. You don't play this game not to want to be out there." -- Jason, in an article about Mike Lowell on the daily juggling of the line-up to accomodate the aquisitions of Victor Martinez and Casey Kotchman.

New Photos To Share...

August 11, 2009

Sharon Tetreault of North Kingston, Rhode Island was at Fenway Park last night to receive her autographed gear from Jason.

Sharon won the Jason Varitek Equipment Raffle on August 3rd, sponsored by Celebrities for Charities. The raffle raised over $20,000 for Saints Medical Center!

The equipment (Jason's All-Star Fourth of July game-used and autographed mask, chest protector, and shin guards) was presented to Sharon just prior to the game. Sharon and her family stayed to watch the Red Sox' 6-5 win over the Tigers.

To see the photos of the presentation, click here.

*A big THANK YOU to Sharon for allowing her photos to be shared, and to Kaitlyn Montagna, Production Manager for Celebrity Marketing Inc., for sending them!

Pre-Game Notes...

Junichi Tazawa will make his first major league start tonight with Jason behind the plate and Victor Martinez at first base. Mike Lowell is out of the lineup again.

Jason enters the series hitting .311 (75-for-241) in 68 career games against the Tigers, his best mark against an AL opponent. In two games against the Tigers this season, he has gone 3-for-7.

According to a report in the Boston Globe, Tazawa will be on a modified pitch count for tonight's start. The Sox typically are cautious with young pitchers, particularly early in their development, and it is likely the Sox will not ask Tazawa to give them more than five innings.

Monday: Tek-nically Speaking

August 10, 2009

NESN's Heidi Watney caught up with Jason for a quick interview in the dugout prior to tonight's game:

Q: The team comes in struggling with a 6-game losing streak, do you see frustration with the guys on the team?

Jason: "We were just one hit away from winning three of those games easily, maybe even four, so it's just a matter of getting things clicking with all facets of the game at the right time."

Q: Terry Francona has been shuffling the lineup a lot with the new members of the team, Casey Kotchman and Victor Martinez. You are one of the guys whose playing time is getting affected, do you see that as a good thing - kind of letting you heal and recover from the grueling schedule of catching?

Jason: I don't know! I really don't know what that means. Terry's making the lineup and we have to stick with it.

Q: Do you feel like you could use a few days off?

Jason: "Well, I mean we're paid to play. So you know, at diffferent times this year I've had to play with some things that I could just as well have taken some time off. But you never know what you're body is going to do the day that you play and what you can expect from it, no matter how good or bad you feel."

Q: Junichi Tazawa gets the start tomorrow night. You caught him the other night...what do you think of him?

Jason: "Well, it was for a short time the other night, but I saw a little life on his fastball. He elevated the balls when I asked him to, saw his split, saw two different breaking balls...so we've just got to get through this lineup with him and see how he can react to different situations."

Q: This past weekend Daniel Bard had a little bit of diffficulty, especially after being so perfect earlier in the season. We expect him to be perfect all the time. What have you seen from him lately?

Jason: "It's just a pitch here, a pitch there. People forget this is his first go-round. He had some success, we moved him into a different role. Whatever role he's in, you're going to eventually run into some spots where he's going to make some mistakes and get into trouble with it. The big thing is the first night in New York he held things where they were when we gave up a run...and he was one pitch away from being out of it last night. There's no lack of confidence in Daniel from us."

Q: What do you think it's going to take to get the Red Sox back on track?

Jason: "One hit. Just one hit at the right time will get this team going. I mean, we could have just as well won a game if a lot of the balls had fallen for a lot of different people in different situations. Offensively, we really can't be worse than we've been over the stretch, so that's a good thing."

Also Today:

From an article/interview with Victor Martinez that appeared on RedSox.com: -

"I'm feeling pretty good," Martinez said about his adjustments to the pitchers. "These guys, they are making it easier for me, the way they treat me. They give me a great welcome here. It makes me feel even more comfortable here."

Jason Varitek, who holds a reputation as a premier defensive backstop, has lent his helping hand as well.

"Great, man, great," Martinez said of his relationship with Varitek. "He's so open to me. He's always saying, 'Anything you need, anything you want help with, come to me.'"

To read the rest, click here.

"Hard Play but Less Fight From Behind the Plate"

August 8, 2009 - Afternoon Update

From an article by George Vecsey in The New York Times this afternoon:

The Red Sox and Yankees were due to go back at it in Yankee Stadium on Saturday afternoon after Friday night's 2-0 victory by the Yanks on a two-run homer by Alex Rodriguez in the 15th inning. Posada caught 14 innings and the Red Sox' Jason Varitek 15 in the marathon.

Posada never met Thurmon Munson, except through the eyes and the words of old Yankees from the antic years, the '70s, when Munson was the captain and resident grump.

"Nobody loved the game more than he did," Posada said.

Posada is not the captain; his friend Derek Jeter is. But if a touch of Munsonian goading is needed, Posada may voluntarily do it.

Unlike Munson, Posada does not have an active rivalry going on with his opposite number, Varitek, the Red Sox' captain. Varitek keeps his counsel to outsiders, but his major league glower probably works wonders in the cramped Red Sox home clubhouse.

The two hard old catchers have not rolled in the dust and flailed at each other the way Munson and Carlton Fisk once did.

"We say 'hello', 'good luck', at home plate," Posada said.

Posada and Varitek are not the universal yin and yang of catchers. Varitek, who turned 37 on April 11, entered Saturday with 1,413 games played and 174 home runs. Posada, who turns 38 on Aug. 17, had played 1,559 games with 235 home runs.

Varitek is a Georgia Tech guy, and Posada is from Puerto Rico with roots in Cuba and has become fluent in English.

"They are two of a kind - all business," said Bruce Froemming, the retired umpire who holds the record of 37 seasons in the majors. Now a roving supervisor of umpires, Froemming was in the press box this weekend and was also behind the plate on July 24, 2004, when Varitek got into it with Rodriguez after Bronson Arroyo hit A-Rod with a pitch.

Actually, Varitek landed a classic hockey-style shot with grungy glove and right paw. What did Froemming do?

"Never beat a man at his own game," he said. "I got out of there. Those are athletes. You can get hurt." Froemming lived to work another day; both combatants were suspended four days.

"You know what, they both play hard all the time," Froemming said of Varitek and Posada, noting that they are also polite to umpires, a wise tactic for catchers.

Just as Fisk and Munson arrived together — Fisk late in 1969, Munson at the start of 1970 — Varitek and Posada have coexisted in the same division for a long time. Varitek had one at-bat for the Sox in 1997; Posada played nine games for the Yankees before 1997.

"They're both switch-hitters with some power, they're both leaders," said Manager Joe Girardi of the Yankees, their regular catcher before Posada.

"I don't know Posada, but I do see what he does," said Terry Francona, the manager of the Red Sox. "Jason’' our captain. He's a leader. When he hits a home run, that's great, and when he doesn't, we still feel he will help us win."

This is also Posada's credo. In his locker, he has taped a quote from Munson, circa 1975: "Look, I like hitting fourth, and I like the good batting average. But what I do every day behind the plate is a lot more important because it touches so many more people, and so many more aspects of the game."

Posada and Varitek got to know each other as members of the All-Star team in 2003.

"Smart guy, does his job, does his homework, is always prepared," Posada said of Varitek. "He's a guy who does what it takes."

Both catchers do what it takes. They probably have one more October between them, although without the sneers of their legendary ancestors.

To read the rest of this long but excellent article by Mr. Vecsey, click here .

Another reason he wears the "C" on his chest...

From Tony Massarotti's column in the Boston Globe:

Two months ago, had these same teams played a similar game, Jason Varitek never would have made the walk across the clubhouse, as he did this morning, virtually his entire body wrapped in ice. Varitek never would have risen from his seat, the clock on the clubhouse wall reading precisely 1:02 a.m., to console a young man who had just surrendered a game-winning home run in the 15th inning of a 2-0 loss.

Back then, after all, the Red Sox would have won this game because the New York Yankees simply did not have the bullpen to match up with Boston’s vaunted relief corps.

But the Yankees do now.

"I just don't want him to hang his head," Varitek said later of Junichi Tazawa, the 23-year-old who made his major league debut as the Red Sox’ sixth and final reliever in last night's draining loss to the Yankees. "His stuff’s too good and he’s too good for that to happen."

So Varitek ambled over to a seemingly catatonic Tazawa, who sat in a chair before his locker in a spacious and largely vacant clubhouse at the new Yankee Stadium. The catcher crouched and looked Tazawa squarely in the eyes, the young man nodding as the 37-year-old captain of the Red Sox spoke. And with his left arm wrapped so thoroughly in ice and an ace bandage that he might as well have been wearing a catcher's mitt, Varitek gave Tazawa a soft, reassuring tap on the head.

To read Mr. Massarotti's full column, click here.

*For more news about last night's game, see this morning's post below!

Tek Support...

As Ortiz Speaks Out, Varitek Voices Support -

Throughout the ordeal, Ortiz has had the unwavering support of his teammates to fall back on, and it's helped him take his usual fearless approach to the plate.

"He's appeared to be himself and continue to go out there," Varitek told NESN's Heidi Watney after Ortiz's press conference. "I think he's handled it extremely well. We just had to show him that we have his back and we do support him."

As for the revelations that stemmed from Ortiz's press conference -- including the fact that it is impossible that all 104 players on the list used PEDs -- Varitek is still trying to sort everything out.

"It's all new information to us," Varitek said. "To sit there and pass judgment in any way, shape or form before you have all of the facts is a tough thing to do."

To see video of Tek's interview, click here.

Tek On Smoltz: "I Can't Do Anything But Commend The Effort That He Went Out There With"

August 7-8, 2009

The Red Sox have designated John Smoltz for assignment. By designating him for assignment - if he is not claimed off waivers, the Red Sox have 10 days to trade or release him.

Jason was in the visitors clubhouse at Yankee Stadium yesterday afternoon when he was asked about the situation. He told reporters that he had only just learned about it a few minutes before their arrival and was reluctant to get into details. He did give his take on how hard Smoltz worked while he was with the team:

"I just know the man has put in a tremendous amount of work to even be where he was, and that's commendable in itself. I can't tell you, in the Baltimore start, what he went through to even take the ball for six innings and that should be recognized, no matter what happens. I think it's just him adjusting to the new (surgically repaired) shoulder. I think that you have somebody that is a potential Hall of Famer making the adjustments he was trying to go through to make himself the best that he could be at this point - he did those things. He didn't necessarily have the best results. I can't do anything but commend the effort that he went out there with."

To watch Tek's pre-game interview on Smoltz, click here.

The Friday into Saturday game....

There are still two games left in this four-game showdown between the rivals, and Boston's focus will be on trying to salvage a split.

"Our season is not over," said Jason Varitek (who caught all 267 pitches). "We've got two months and, obviously, we haven't played our best baseball recently, and the good thing was what I saw pitching-wise today. That's what's going to help us get over the hump."

The game started as a riveting duel between Josh Beckett (seven innings, four hits, two walks, seven K's) and A.J. Burnett, who were once the bright lights of a young Florida Marlins staff. Now they are established veterans thrust into the middle of baseball's most storied rivalry.

Neither pitcher blinked, and it came down to the bullpens on both sides.

Tazawa, the 23-year-old from Japan who was promoted from Triple-A Pawtucket earlier in the day, was all the Red Sox had left in the bullpen.

Derek Jeter started the 15th inning with a bloop single, but Tazawa retired the next two batters and came close to pushing the epic game to the 16th. But A-Rod picked a crushing time -- from the perspective of the Red Sox -- to end a 72-at-bat homerless streak.

"That was my regret," said Tazawa through an interpreter. "I left the ball a little too high."

As Tazawa sat by his locker, several teammates approached him and offered encouraging words. Varitek, the team captain, crouched in front of Tazawa and spoke to him.

So what was the red-eyed Tazawa thinking as he sat in his chair? He said he was reviewing the game and thinking about his next opportunity to pitch.

"Every pitcher that played today did very well," Tazawa said. "I couldn't do it. So I was thinking how I could be better like the pitchers who did really well in the game."

But Josh Beckett said the game has to be put in perspective, "The one good thing about baseball is there's always tomorrow...we've just got to come back and continue to do the things we need to make us successful."

As for Junichi Tazawa?

The captain is not worried, "He's going to help us a lot. And he's going to have a long career."

*Synopsis and quotes taken from post-game articles in the New York Times, Boston Globe, RedSox.com, and the Providence Journal.

Tek Stats:

As of Friday...

Out of the 15 American League starting catchers*: Tek has more home runs than 11 other catchers, more doubles than 14 other catchers, more RBI than 12 other catchers, a better OBP than 9 other catchers, a higher SLG than 11 other catchers, and a higher OPS than 11 other catchers.

*(two teams - the Orioles and the Mariners - use an almost "even split" between their two catchers, so I figured in the stats for both).

Wednesday: Notes & Quotes

August 5, 2009

From the Boston Globe's Chad Finn this afternoon:

One thing that Francona believes will work is the split in playing time behind the plate with Jason Varitek and newcomer Victor Martinez. Francona explained some of the factors that will be considered when he decides who will catch on a particular night.

"Who's pitching for us, who's pitching for them, rest, production, health. There's a number of things taken into consideration," Francona said. ". . .We'll catch Victor tomorrow [because Varitek is catching tonight and the Sox will have an early-morning arrival in New York]. It's [John] Smoltz, who hasn't been here for years and has that relationship with Tek etched in stone. Even though Victor's new, Smoltzy is relatively new too. There's a level of cooperation that needs to go on here right now, which I think our guys are doing a great job of. Ultimately what we're tying to do is win, and guys are sacrificing a little bit of their personal stuff for the good of the team. I think it's working out really well.

"There's probably some comfort level with guys who Tek has caught here, and caught very well with success," he added. "There's a lot of things that go into it. We try to use good judgment. We try to look ahead and have somewhat of an idea, and when things crop up, you’re prepared to make a change and have some balance in your lineup."

To read Mr. Finn's complete Extra Bases blog, click here.

From MLB.com's Ian Browne in his game summary from last night:

Saito was the last reliever the Red Sox had. If the game had gone to the 14th inning, Clay Buchholz, who started on Sunday in Baltimore, would have come on.

But it never got that far, thanks to Longoria, who drilled a 1-0 fastball from Saito to send everybody home. It was Saito's 31st pitch. "Actually, Tek wanted something else, but I shook my head and decided myself to [throw a fastball]," said Saito.

To read Mr. Browne's full post-game summary, click here.

Sox vs. Trop...

The Red Sox still can't figure out Tropicana Field. They are 2-12 at the Juice Box since the start of last season.

Also Today:

From Tony Massarotti's "Chat with Mazz" today -

Q: Mazz, is it time for Jason Varitek to assume the role of "personal catcher"? He clearly cannot handle the rigors offensively or defensively playing several times a week.

Tony Massarotti: Don't agree with you on this. Varitek has been struggling with shoulder/neck issues for much of the last two months. The Red Sox value him greatly for his work behind the plate. Something tells me they are far more aware of his sacrifices than we are.

To read the full chat, click here.

Tuesday Edition of "Tek-nically Speaking..."

August 4, 2009

Quotes from an article on NESN.com today by Maureen Mullen entitled, "Even with Martinez, Varitek's value still sky high":

For Justin Masterson, who departed Friday in the trade for Martinez, Varitek helped ease the young pitcher’s transition to the big leagues.

"He knows how I am, a laid-back guy having a good ole time, of course serious on the mound, but he knows I like to have fun," Masterson said. "And he came along those lines and was there just to make sure if anything didn’t go right, wherever there's a time, a few struggles here and there, to make sure I'm keeping my head up, saying, 'Hey, you’ve got the stuff.' Just simple things like that, always in his mind saying, 'Hey, let's try this pitch here to this batter.' Just talking through things, and that's helped me be a better pitcher in general. And, whenever his career is over, I'll have a better idea of who I am as a pitcher because of him."

But there was a time this offseason when it appeared Varitek would be anywhere else but Boston this season. Negotiations between the team and Scott Boras, Varitek's agent, lagged before the sides finally reached a deal Jan. 31.

"Ludicrous," said closer Jonathan Papelbon. "I thought it was ludicrous that they were thinking about not bringing him back. The biggest thing that he brings to our team and means to our team is leadership by example. And when I say that, I mean he shows everyone by his examples how to play, how to be a consistent player and he shows everyone how to play through pain, just everything that goes along with leading by example."

And that carries over to the rest of the team.

"I think he's such a stable force behind our pitching staff," said Mike Lowell. "I think, in today's game, we analyze things so much. I think there’s actually an added 'oomph' to guys that can handle a pitching staff. I was actually talking to [Orioles catcher] Gregg Zaun the other day. And I was like, 'So, how’s it going? I see that you've been swinging the bat pretty good.' He goes, 'I’m just trying to do my best to call a good game, put the pitcher in a position to win, and if I hit, it's icing on the cake.'

"It's almost gotten to that point where if you have someone who can handle a staff so well, you can almost offset the offense. Well, that being said, no one wants to not hit. And I think Tek's got to be happy with his power numbers. His average I'm sure is lower than what he would want. But I think he's shown that we can play a lot of winning baseball with him behind there. I think there would have been a lot more openings and question marks and inconsistencies if he wasn't here this year."

Handling a pitching staff, helping young pitchers acclimate to the major leagues, knowing the opposition. For most catchers, those aspects will always be more important than offensive numbers.

"I think the most concise and most appropriate thing is that every guy who takes the mound has the utmost trust in his game-calling, and his pitch selection to execute a game plan," said pitching coach John Farrell. "That's because of the preparation that he puts in, his priority of getting the most out of the given pitcher that’s on the mound at the time.

"He's got such a vast personal reference and history with a lot of guys, particularly with the constant rosters in New York, particularly in our division. There's a lot of history there and a lot of understanding of what the thought process is of certain hitters on those rosters when they’re trying to attack a certain pitcher that we have on the mound at the time. So he's able to factor all those things in and yet still have a very clear-cut plan for his own selection based on what’s working for the individual pitcher on a given night."

This season, batting .233 (.228 left-handed, .242 right-handed) with a .346 OBP and .448 slugging percentage, he has already surpassed his RBI total of last season with 44, and he has met his home run output. But for Varitek, it’s never been about what he can do from the sides of the plate.

"His batting average is whatever his batting average is," Francona said. "I don't know that that's the way we need to measure Tek, because I think what he does for this team, he's always going to suffer offensively. He's also hit some huge home runs and when he catches we feel like we're going to win. That's, to me, the best way to measure him."

To read Ms. Mullen's complete article, click here.

And The Winner Is...

August 3, 2009

Congratulations to Sharon Tetreault of North Kingston, RI!

Sharon won the Jason Varitek Equipment Raffle sponsored by Celebrities for Charities.

The equipment (his All-Star Fourth of July game-used and autographed mask, chest protector, and shin guards) will be presented to Sharon by Jason on Monday, August 10, 2009 when the Red Sox face the Detroit Tigers at Fenway Park. As the winning ticket holder, Sharon will also receive four tickets to the game.

Thank you to everyone who entered the raffle, which raised over $20,000 for Saints Medical Center!

*Also, thank you to Kaitlyn Montagna from CFC for the info!

Now you may have lost out on the raffle for the July 4th equipment, but...

There's still time to win tickets to a RED SOX vs. YANKEES Game and take three of your closest friends!

Entry Deadline: 11:00 AM EDT, August 20, 2009

That Grand Prize again...

- Winner will receive 4 Premium Tickets to the August 22, 2009 Sox vs. Yankees game at Fenway Park (Game Time 4:10 PM)

- Winner and 3 guests will enjoy a pregame tour of Fenway Park

- Winner will receive a $100.00 gift certificate to Tresca Restaurant (located in Boston' historic North End)

- Winner will receive an autographed 8 x 10 photo of Jason

Help Jason and the Celebrities for Charity Foundation in their efforts to provide support to local charities and, in return, you could be enjoy an incredible experience at Fenway this month!

Tickets start at just $2.00 each and decrease for orders of more than 5 tickets.

The CFC Foundation is utilizing NetRaffle to conduct this raffle and tickets are only available online at their web site.

For more info, check out their Charity Raffles page here.

Also Today:

From the Providence Journal's Daniel Barbari in his column entitled, "Everything's in order for suddenly potent Sox" -

Some teams look on the upcoming schedule and wince when they see they'll face a pitcher who is hard on batters hitting from one side, but weak on the other.

Like the powerful Yankees, for instance, who are hitting 25 points better against lefties (.295) than righties (.269). Or the Royals, who hit a woeful .245 against righties but a respectable .260 against left-handers. Both have significant splits that can play to the advantage of certain pitchers.

The Red Sox have been effective against pitchers both sides this season, hitting .270 against lefties and .267 against righties.

Now, the addition of switch-hitting catcher Victor Martinez could make them much, much better against specialist types, particularly left-handers, by allowing Boston to stack the lineup to one side or another without sacrificing lineup quality in the way that some teams must.

Since Martinez was acquired Friday, much of the focus has been on the difficulty of splitting playing time amongst Martinez, Kevin Youkilis, David Ortiz, Jason Varitek, and Mike Lowell. But the fact that all these veteran hitters will be available for matchup duty provides a significant edge.

Lowell is hitting .316 with 6 home runs against lefties in 89 at-bats (though his numbers against right-handers are pretty good, as well), and Baldelli is hitting .296 with 3 homers in 71 at-bats. Varitek, too, is hitting better against left-handers, with a .253 average and 6 home runs in 75 at-bats.

It wouldn't be the kind of lineup that would be victimized by righty relievers once the starter has left the game, either, as the three switch-hitters would move to the other side of the plate and ensure that there were never more than two right-handers batting in a row. For added pop, Baldelli could leave the game in favor of Drew in the later innings.

These lineups run deep, as well, with the promise of having an eighth-place hitter, whether it Varitek or perhaps Lowell, boasting double-digit home runs.

To read Mr. Barbarisi's complete column, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

From the Boston Globe's Adam Gilgore this afternoon:

Francona said Varitek will view Martinez's arrival as an opportunity for more breaks, not a detriment to his playing time.

"I think what the payoff is, is he’ll be a little better physically," Francona said. "There will be some days when we'll have to even it out a little bit. I think it will certainly help him. I don’t know how a guy can be out there and does what Tek does and not get beat up. We get to see it firsthand. I have a lot of respect for him."

Varitek's bat, a major question at the start of the season, is worth keeping fresh. Among major league catchers, Varitek ranks third in home runs (13), fourth in RBIs (44), and eighth in on-base plus slugging percentage (.797). His offensive season has been unusual in one regard -- 51 percent of his hits have been for extra bases, the second-highest rate in the AL.

"He has carried a big load, and gets beat up for it," Francona said. "There’s a reason that 'C' was put on his chest. That's why. Things like that. There’s nothing more important to him than us winning. We've always believed that."

Sunday: Notes & Quotes

August 2, 2009

Game Notes:

While it seemed that all eyes were on the newly-acquired Victor Martinez, it was Josh Beckett who stole the show Saturday in Baltimore as the Sox shutout the Orioles 4-0. Josh pitched seven innings of six-hit ball last night for his major league-leading 13th win.

The win also brought Boston to within a half game of the first place Yankees who got crushed Saturday afternoon in Chicago, 14-4.

The Sox play the final game of the weekend series at 1:35 this afternoon.

Martinez will catch Clay Buchholz in today's game, giving Tek the day off. According to Nick Cafardo's report in the Boston Globe late this morning - both catching coach Gary Tuck and Tek both huddled with Victor Martinez this morning to go over the Oriole hitters and just to chat about his catching debut with the Red Sox today.

Francona feels that Varitek has carried a big load and often played when he was far less than 100 percent. He hopes the addition of Martinez will lessen the load and help him heal. "There's a reason he wears the "C" because there's nothing more important to Tek than winning. He's sacrificed a lot for us," Francona said.

More Quotes:

"That's one of the guys that I really look up to...I really love the way he plays the game - with passion and always plays hard. You know, just watching him play you learn a lot. He's one of the best catchers in the game. I really look forward to talking to him a lot, just to be beside him and learn from him. I'll learn a lot of stuff from him." -- Victor Martinez during an interview on NESN's Pre-Game Show yesterday.

"I'll do whatever I can to help him with the staff. But Victor is a hard-working player. I'm sure he’ll get this on his own." -- Tek on helping Martinez get comfortable.

"We're trying to get better as a team, which is stating the obvious. Physically, we will try to help Tek with the workload. I don't know if I would say, 'Take away'; I would say 'help' is a better word. [Martinez] will also maybe DH, play some first against left-handers. There's going to have to be some cooperation all the way around, which I'd be surprised if there wasn't, because that's how our guys do things." -- Terry Francona on Martinez' role on the team, from an interview yesterday.

"Varitek has been the starting catcher for more than 75 percent of the Sox’ games this season. His left shoulder soreness continues to be an issue, and as much as the Red Sox want to make sure that he gets plenty of time to rest and heal, they still value him quite highly for his work with pitchers. He will still be the first choice to catch aces Jon Lester and Josh Beckett, and tellingly, Varitek was in the starting lineup last night, batting seventh and catching Beckett." -- Michael Silverman, from his column in the Boston Herald this morning.

"Although Varitek wants to play a lot, even though his body is banged up, the Red Sox feel the rest will benefit him. Certainly, egos will have to be set aside, but if it does work, there's no reason the Martinez-Varitek tandem couldn't exist through next year." -- Nick Cafardo, from his column in the Boston Globe this morning.

"'Martinez isn't going to run that pitching staff like Varitek does,' another American League scout said. 'He just does not run a pitching staff like Varitek.'" -- Danny Knobler, senior writer for CBS Sports.com, from his column today.

And last, but certainly not least...

"He's a good player; he plays the game right. I was trying to not drop that ball. I probably tagged him a little harder than I should, but that was an important play at the time." -- Baltimore relief pitcher Danys Baez after the game. Earlier, Baez had some "choice" words for Tek from the safety of his dugout, after a botched rundown play by the Orioles. The captain apparently wasn't pleased with how hard he was tagged.

To see a larger version of the photo, click here.

Captain Clutch!

July 31, 2009 - Evening Update (see below)

From the Worcester Telegram's Bill Ballou today:

"Jason Varitek was a career .208 hitter with the bases loaded going into 2009, but he has been Boston’s most productive bases-loaded hitter this season. He had an RBI single with the bases full in the second and is 3 for 11 (.273) with 12 RBIs with the bases loaded this season. That is the highest RBI total on the Red Sox."

To read Mr. Ballou's complete Red Sox Notebook, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"Vic is a good dude!"

Tek during an interview that took place in the visitor's clubhouse today at Camden Yards:

On his reaction to the Victor Martinez trade -

"Oh, I think it will be a good thing for our team. He should be able to help us in a lot of different facets."

On his own playing time being affected -

"I don't really know. We'll see as time dictates. I don’t think, with the chaos of everything, they’ve had that opportunity to go through that. Either way, I think he's going to come help our ballclub."

On what Martinez brings as far as offense -

"Victor is a tough out, from both sides of the plate. Obviously, we've had our troubles scoring runs so I think he's going to help."

On whether having Martinez spell him behind the plate on occasion will help him stay healthy for the rest of the season -

"I don't know. I go out and play everyday, no matter what's going on."

On losing Justin Masterson in the trade -

"Justin's awesome. He gave us a lot of flexibility as a starter, a reliever, as a long guy and as a short guy. You have all of that and [the fact] that he's a pretty good human being. He will be missed."

On how quickly they lost teammate Adam LaRoche (in a trade to the Atlanta Braves) -

"Yeah, that was an interesting dynamic! There are a lot of pieces and parts moving right now and the dust will all settle."

On how well he knows Martinez -

"I would say from a catching standpoint, we have that mutual respect. Vic is a good dude and a really good player."

On the difficulty for Martinez coming to a new team and playing multiple positions -

"We'll have to do what we can to aid that along in any way that we can that will ultimately help us win more games."

On Martinez' defense -

"His most impressive attribute is his offense. You've seen Vic develop as a catcher, he got better over the years in all different parts of it."

On the stress of the trading deadline on the team -

"Well, I mean just like you guys, you guys are running around trying to figure out what's going on and shortly after you guys find out, we find out. It's the same thing, it will all settle itself down and the game will be played tonight, and we'll go on with our business.

"When your name is involved, there's some apprehension. But outside of that, you still gotta play the game. At some level, whether you're in the minors or the majors, you've probably been involved in trade rumors or have been traded so everybody goes through it."

More...

"What we're getting in Victor is a middle of the order, switch-hitting batter, who can catch, play first, DH. It's a very valuable piece, There are a lot of things to like about Victor. He can help take a little off Tek and we can do a lot to hopefully be able to attack a lot of the better pitching in the league." -- Terry Francona on Martinez, prior to the game.

"He has the ability to catch, but not to do so every day, [that] just wears his legs down. He'll spend enough time at first base and DH, stay fresh, and that works for our club because Jason Varitek is, has been, and will continue to be a very important part of our club and the pitching staff." -- Theo Epstein on Martinez, during a post-trade deadline interview.

"The difference between Martinez's 22.4 runs above replacement and Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek's 13.8 is worth roughly a half a win over the remainder of the season, but a closer look at their seasons reveals that Martinez did most of his hitting in April and May and has hit just .211/.303/.378 since June 1 to Varitek's .238/.366/.389 over the same span. Martinez could very easily rebound down the stretch; his .313/.361/.552 line at Fenway Park is well above his career rates despite the fact that it was compiled against the often excellent Red Sox pitching. As of right now, however, he doesn't represent a meaningful improvement over Varitek behind the plate." -- Sports Illustrated's Inside Baseball analyst Cliff Corcoran.

Tek Goes 3-4 With 3 RBI In Afternoon Win Against A's

July 30, 2009

"The Red Sox catcher having quite a day for himself, his third run driven in of the game on his third hit. Two singles, and now this double! -- Guest game announcer and former Red Sox catcher Bob Montgomery in the NESN booth.

NESN's Michael Hurley sums up Tek's day, and gives him the game's "Dirt Dog" award:

Dirt Dog: As usual, nothing Jason Varitek did on Thursday afternoon was flashy. Though he and Sox pitchers allowed three stolen bases on the day, the captain's bat did some damage.

Varitek singled to short right field to drive in the first run of the game. When the Sox began a rally in the bottom of the sixth, Varitek plated Mike Lowell on another RBI single, cutting the lead to just one run.

He wasn't done yet, as Varitek doubled in the bottom of the eighth to give the Sox some cushion, driving in J.D. Drew.

A close-up of Tek from one of the NESN cameras showed him standing on second base in the eighth inning smiling and shaking his head as if in disbelief of his day at the plate. Ands he was a man of even fewer words than normal when he spoke with NESN's Heidi Watney on the field (above) after the game:

Q: "What had you so locked in at the plate?"

Jason: "I have no idea! (long pause) We were just trying to get through the day. It was a tough turn-around (day game after a night game)...I don't know!

His last 3-hit game was on May 31, 2008.

Oakland sent 10 batters to the plate in the sixth inning, scoring four runs to make it 4-1 and chase Jon Lester. But the Red Sox scored two in the bottom half and then, after Oakland made it 5-3, took the lead in the seventh.

With two runners aboard, David Ortiz hit a two-out pitch from Craig Breslow (4-5) to right-center, giving Boston a 6-5 lead. The drive sailed over the Red Sox bullpen and to the right of the 420 foot sign that marks the deepest part of Fenway Park.

Kevin Youkilis reached on a double with a high fly ball that right fielder Jack Cust lost in the sun. Jason Bay walked and Ortiz made it 6-5 with his second homer since the All-Star break. J.D. Drew and Tek hit back-to-back doubles (Tek's 19th of the season) in the eighth, then Jacoby Ellsbury hit a sacrifice fly to make it 8-5.

Jon Lester was doing fine, until a four-run sixth inning gave Oakland a 4-1 lead and drove Lester out.

"He made good pitches. Things just didn't go his way in that inning," said Tek.

"He made a good two-strike pitch to Jack Cust but didn't get the call, and that led to a walk. Rajai Davis had a hit off the handle, or else Jon might have escaped with minimal damage."

Manny Delcarmen (3-2) got four outs for the win, Daniel Bard pitched a perfect eighth and Jonathan Papelbon worked the ninth for his 26th save.

The Sox head to Baltimore after the game.

To see video of Tek's clutch day, click here.

To see video Tek's post-game interview, click here.

And once again, I couldn't find any photos (the above are screen captures)!

Jason's current stats: AVG .239 | HR 13 | RBI 44 | OBP .346 | SLG .458

Tito Talks Tek...

July 28, 2009

From the Providence Journal's Joe McDonald this evening:

Jason Varitek is a virtual walking freezer of ice. From head to toe, almost every part of his body is covered with ice packs. It doesn't matter if it's before the game or after the game, the Red Sox catcher and captain is encased in the cold stuff.

As a result, Francona decided to give Varitek Tuesday night off from the starting lineup.

"He's banged up. Any catcher who catches as much as Tek has to this point [in the season] is going to be," said Francona.

With Wakefield on the disabled list, Francona is trying to work backup receiver George Kottaras into the mix a little more, especially with the Sox facing two left-handers in the last two games of the series against the Athletics. Plus, Kottaras is very familiar with Buchholz, who started Tuesday night. Both were at Pawtucket last year.

"Hopefully we never take Tek for granted, but we take for granted that he's going to be beat up," said Francona. "Rest is not welcomed for him because he likes to play, but it's needed and hopefully we take advantage of it. Whatever his batting average is, that's not how we measure Tek. What he does for this team, he'll always suffer offensively."

Varitek averages 130 games per season and shows no signs — other than the ice — of slowing down.

"He's also hit some huge home runs and when he catches we feel like we're going to win. We do want to be cognizant of the fact that as he gets beat up during the year we need to at least recognize that and not run him into the ground."

To read Mr. McDonald's complete Red Sox journal, click here.

Also This Evening:

Limited Edition Charity Wines Still Available...but not for long!

EventWines.com, the online retailer for Charity Wines is offering an internet special through August 31th on their in-stock limited edition wines.

Order 12 or more bottles of any of their Charity Wines and receive free shipping.

You can still choose from the following Red Sox wines: Jason Varitek's "Captain's Cabernet", Curt Schilling's "Schilling Schardonnay", Tim Wakefield's "Caberknuckle Cabernet", Kevin Youkilis' "Sauvignyoouuk Blanc" and David Ortiz' "Vintage Papi California Blend". All are still in stock, but stock is limited!

For more info and to order online, click here.

To see Martin Leiberman's pics from the Charity Wine Event last year, click here (8th row).

Red Sox 8, Athletics 3

July 27, 2009

"I thought Tek and I did a really good job. Most normal people probably wouldn't have been playing if they were Tek. I am amazed by what he does, how he goes out there whether he's feeling 100 percent or 5 percent. I think today was probably closer to 5 percent than 100 percent, he deserves a lot of credit for that....we had a game plan and we stuck to it, and like I said, he deserves a lot of credit for that, he really does." -- Josh Beckett during his post-game press conference.

Tek was also on base three times tonight with an RBI-single and two walks in the Sox win.

Game Summary:

Dustin Pedroia went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and two runs batted in, while Josh Beckett was solid in seven-plus innings, as the Boston Red Sox handled the Oakland Athletics, 8-3, in the opener of a four-game series at Fenway Park.

Beckett (12-4) allowed three runs on eight hits to remain perfect at home this season. Beckett, who tied a season high with 10 strikeouts, is 7-0 in 10 starts this year at Fenway Park. The righty has won five of his past seven starts.

Jacoby Ellsbury went 3-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored for the Red Sox, who have won three of their past four tilts. Adam LaRoche hit a pair of doubles, drove in a run, and scored once. Jed Lowrie stroked a two-run double, and Jason Varitek and Jason Bay each knocked in a run and walked twice for Boston, which improved its MLB-best home record to 34-15.

Trevor Cahill (6-9) got rocked in five frames, giving up six runs on a career- high 10 hits. The rookie right-hander tied a career-high with five strikeouts. Cahill dropped to 1-3 in the month of July.

Pedroia's one-out, solo homer over the Green Monster in the first inning gave the Red Sox the early edge.

Boston added a run in the third to build a two-run margin. Ellsbury started the frame with a triple down the right-field line, and Pedroia stepped to the plate and hit a sacrifice fly to right.

The Red Sox put a three-spot on the board in the fourth to take a comfortable 5-0 lead. Bay walked and J.D. Drew singled to put men on first and second with nobody out. LaRoche and Varitek followed with an RBI double and an RBI single, respectively. Following a Lowrie fly out, Ellsbury knocked in LaRoche with an infield single. Cahill finally got out of the inning by getting Pedroia to ground into a double play.

Bay's RBI single in the fifth made it a 6-0 game.

Meanwhile, Beckett retired nine straight batters before running into a little bit of trouble in the sixth. Adam Kennedy and Orlando Cabrera hit back-to-back one-out singles. After getting Scott Hairston to go down swinging, Beckett walked Jack Cust to load the bases. Suzuki then plated the first A's run with an RBI single, but Ryan Sweeney was called out on strikes to end the frame.

"It's what we needed. It was a good solid outing," said Jason Varitek. "He's been there so much for us this year, consistently."

Tek-nically Speaking...

From the Providence Journal's Paul Kenyon:

Beckett spent more time talking about Varitek than himself. Varitek had ice packs all over his body after the game and had a nasty bruise on his right shin with all shades of red, blue and purple. Beckett expressed his admiration for the captain.

"Most normal people probably wouldn't have been out there," Beckett said. "I'm amazed by what he does, how he goes out there whether he's 5 percent or 100 percent. I think today was closer to 5 percent."

And from the Boston Globe's Ben Collins and the Worcester Telegram's Bill Ballou:

Reporters surrounded Varitek in the locker room and asked how he was hurt.

“Why am I not 100 percent?" Varitek said.

He then lifted a towel and revealed his legs, almost completely black and blue from knee to toe.

It is nothing in particular, Varitek said as he pointed out the various icepacks and bandages he was wearing, adding, "Want to see any more body parts?"

The offer was declined by a group of reporters.

Varitek said Beckett is the reason for a lot of those bruises.

However during his post-game interview, when asked about Beckett's praise, the Captain was quick to point out that, "It's about the way we pitch the ball, it's not about me."

To see Tek's RBI-single, click here.

To see his post-game interview, click here.

To see Kelly O'Connor's latest photos of Tek (including the one above), click here.

Jason's current stats: AVG .233 | HR 13 | RBI 41 | OBP .342 | SLG .455

Also Today:

The Annual Jason Varitek and Dustin Dedroia Baseball Camp is taking place this week at Stonehill College.

The camp is conducted for boys ages 9-16. Most campers stay overnight and participate day and night. During the five days the kids get top level instruction on the fundamentals of hitting, pitching, fielding, throwing, catching and base running.

There are guest appearances by current and former major league players. Jason Varitek and Dustin Dedroia speak to the players as a group and take pictures with the kids.

To see a video of today's camp and an interview with Dustin, click here.

Red Sox 7, Orioles 2

July 25, 2009

...and Tek hits his 18th double of the season.

Jon Lester worked 7 1/3 strong innings, and David Ortiz smacked a three-run homer in the game's opening frame, as the Red Sox won their second straight game following a season-high five-game slide, 7-2, over the Orioles.

Adam LaRoche cracked a two-run homer over the Green Monster in his first game since joining the Sox in a trade with Pittsburgh earlier in the week. Jacoby Ellsbury had a pair of RBI doubles in the triumph for Boston, which has taken the first two in this three-game weekend series.

Lester (9-7) was touched for two runs and eight hits while fanning nine and walking two. The crafty lefty picked up his fourth win in the last five decisions and has surrendered just nine runs in that span. He also moved to 9-0 lifetime in 11 starts against Baltimore.

The Red Sox have won eight of nine versus their AL East comrades this year and have taken 17 of the last 20 in the series, including 11 in a row at Fenway Park.

Ortiz was able to make good on a Dustin Pedroia walk and Jason Bay single in the first, taking a two-out Guthrie fastball deep and out to center for the early 3-0 lead.

Ellsbury doubled in the second and chased home Jason Varitek, who had also doubled, for a 4-0 margin, before Baltimore scored twice in the fourth on RBI singles by Wieters and Izturis.

But Ellsbury doubled in Nick Green in the home half for a 5-2 game, and LaRoche added his two-run shot in the eighth for a five-run cushion.

The O's, meanwhile, could only advance a runner as far as third once past the fourth, when Wieters started the ninth with a base hit and took two bases on Nick Markakis' two-out single. Ramon Ramirez polished off the win by inducing a fly ball to right from Adam Jones.

To see Tek's post-game interview, click here.

To see Jacoby's RBI double that scored Tek, click here.

Jason's current stats: AVG .231 | HR 13 | RBI 40 | OBP .337 | SLG .455

"Past A Diving Roberts And Into Centerfield...

July 25, 2009

...and Drew will score to tie the game!"-- MASN's Buck Martinez on Jason's RBI single that tied the game in the fourth inning.

Red Sox 3, Orioles 1 in first game of their 3-game weekend series.

Brad Penny helped lead Boston to a 3-1 victory over Baltimore Friday night at Fenway Park, snapping a season-high five-game losing streak for the Red Sox.

Boston hit .290 (9-for-31) for the game with two doubles. All nine of Boston’s batters got in on the action, with eight of them reaching base at least once and the other driving in a run.

Baltimore struck first in the top of the second frame when Mora drove in Nolan Reimold with a sacrifice fly to center field,. But from then on it was all Red Sox.

Boston put runners on second and third base with no outs in the bottom of the fourth inning after a J.D. Drew single and Mike Lowell double.

Following the double, Varitek delivered Drew, ripping a slider from Bergesen past a diving Brian Roberts and into right field.

They extended that lead to 3-1 in the bottom of the fifth inning when Kevin Youkilis scored on a Drew fielder’s choice grounder to first base.

Penny (7-4) was sharp all night, mixing in his off-speed pitches with his patented fastballs to near perfection, lasting 6 1/3 innings, matching his second-longest start of the year. He scattered five hits with no walks and allowed one unearned run before being relieved by Manny Delcarmen (2/3 of an inning, one strikeout) with one out and a runner on second base in the seventh inning and the Red Sox clinging to a 3-1 lead.

With the two-run lead and Penny out of the game, Delcarmen, Hideki Okajima (1 inning, 0 hits), and Jonathan Papelbon (1 inning, 2 hits, 1 walk, 2 strikeouts, 0 runs) did the rest.

Penny threw 108 pitches, 78 for strikes. He received a standing ovation from the sellout crowd of 38,085.

"He was able to throw his fastball to both sides of the plate," captain Jason Varitek said. "Brad always has a good downhill plane. His fastball opened things up, and he threw some decent breaking balls and splits at different times."

Baltimore made things interesting in the top of the ninth inning against Papelbon, who began his stint by giving up back-to-back singles to Adam Jones and Nick Markakis, which put runners on the corners with no outs.

Papelbon got Adam Huff to pop out to shortstop, but he walked Nolan Reimold to load the bases for Luke Scott. Papelbon struck out Scott with a 93-mph split-fingered fastball before striking out Melvin Mora with a 98-mph fastball to earn his 25th save of the season.

"We've seen some of that this year," Francona said. "He gets himself into a hole and then he just turns it up a notch. I think tonight he felt too strong. He got himself into a bind. He elevated a couple of balls but then he settled down."

The Red Sox have now beaten Baltimore 10 times in a row at Fenway Park.

To see video of Jason's RBI single, click here.

Jason's current stats: AVG .231 | HR 13 | RBI 40 | OBP .338 | SLG .454

Tek Stats:

Base stealers aside...

Tek's defense, among full time catchers:

Fielding % - 2nd (tie) in the AL
Passed balls - 1st in the majors (zero)
Catcher ERA - 1st in the AL (3.81)
Range factor - 1st in the AL

Tek's offense, as stacked up against other A.L. catchers:

OPS - 5th (200 or more AB's)
SLG - 6th
RBI - 6th
HR - 3rd (Tie)
OBP - 5th

*Thanks Jay!

A "Becky Update"...

July 24, 2009

Revisting my July 13th post:

Becky Cooley's brother Mike emailed me early last week to let me know that Becky was in the hospital with an infection. But Becky emailed this week to tell me that she is now out of the hospital and a few days later had some good news to share with me and all the fans from both sites that have asked about her (I found out that Becky is also a big Steelers fan) -

Erin,

Thanks for the LUCK! It worked! No more chemo!!!!! 2 more weeks of radiation and, if all goes as expected, that will be it!!!

The Doc's will not use the word "remission" yet. That will take a while. But, it feels good not to feel like I'm going to drop over any moment. Chemo in any dose is too much. I managed to hold onto my hair until right at the end. Oh well, maybe it'll grow back thick and luxurious, haha!

Two more radiation treatments and I think I'll be off the hook. AND I CANNOT WAIT! Erin, I feel so good just knowing we'll all have a break from this, at the very least. My entire family has been exceptional. They really stepped up to the plate for me. They have been there every step of the way and then some. And dear, sweet, goofy Mike. He's been so loving, patient and kind. He had to take care of situations that would make most men run away screaming, but he was a real trooper. We have grown so much closer because of this.

You know Erin, this whole cancer deal really wasn't so bad. Because I have found an entirely new perspective. I have found a new joy and freedom in life. And I don't believe I could have found it, without cancer finding me first.

Thanks for all your kindness, my Friend!

Becky

These are just a few of the emails for Becky I received from fans:

"Becky, I want you to know that you are definitely in my prayers and when I read the article/note at the Jason Varitek site courtesy of Erin, it brought me to tears. Please know that you are being thought about, and in many people's prayers. Stay strong, and have faith always that you can beat this. I love your pictures and I had the chance to see them on the site, and I have to say that your very talented!! I too, love picture taking. Stay positive and keep doing what you love!! God is walking with you always! Hugs to you! I'm rooting for you, Becky!! Hit the home run and beat this, you can do it!" -- Misty (from my other site).

"Erin, please let Becky know I will keep her in my thoughts and prayers." -- Jean

Hi, I just read Erin's site and the very touching story about you. Your photographs are the best I have seen. You have amazing talent. I am a huge Jason Varitek fan too. I told Erin the black and white one she has on the site just has something extra special about it. The picture you took of Jon Lester sure made me smile too. He is quite a young man and is my favorite BRS player after Tek. I hope and pray that you regain your health soon. I respect you so much for going to school & raising your sons. I know being a single mom isn't easy either. May God bless you and your family through all your battles. There are so many people out here praying for you and holding good thoughts." -- Barbara

"Becky, you are in my prayers and my thoughts today and every day, now throughout this tough battle. Don't Quit!!! -- Anne Cooper (from my other site).

"Erin, please send Becky my deepest regards and best wishes for a complete recovery! Her photography is beautful." -- Sean

"Hi Erin! Please let Becky know friends here in Maine are pulling for her. Also, thank her profusely for all the photos she shares with us. She has a wonderful talent and it's generous of her to share her gift!" -- Kathy

"Becky, it is obvious from that email your brother wrote that you are truly blessed with a great family! You and your family are in our prayers." -- The Tyler Family

"Erin, you let Becky know that she is in our heart and our thoughts. Please keep us updated!" -- George (from my other site).

Thank you to everyone for the lovely emails!

And thank you to Becky's sons, Eric and Sean for sharing the photos above!

If you haven't had a chance to check out Becky's photo gallery, click here and enjoy!

The Ice Man

July 20, 2009

From the Providence Journal's Joe McDonald:

Before and after games, Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek is a virtual walking ice pack.

The 37-year-old backstop is covered from head to toe and it’s because of his tireless work behind the plate, including a play he made in the bottom of the second inning on Sunday at Rogers Centre.

With two on and one out, the Jays’ Kevin Millar hit a pop up in foul territory near the Toronto dugout. Varitek quickly made it to the area near the top step, and slid on his knees to make the grab for the second out.

Varitek also passed Dom DiMaggio for ninth place on the Sox’ all-time games played list with 1,400. DiMaggio passed away earlier this season. Rico Petrocelli is No. 8 on the list with 1,553. Carl Yastrzemski leads the category with 3,308.

Varitek will need a lot more ice packs to move up the list.

Today's Tek Stat...

- Jason has not allowed a passed ball in 69 games behind the plate.

"How Red Sox Pitchers Work The Strike Zone"

July 17, 2009

Excerpts from an excellent article by the Boston Globe's Tony Massarotti today:

Poking the air with his right index finger as if he were dotting a blackboard with a piece of chalk, Jason Varitek sat in front of his locker recently and marked the four corners of the major league strike zone. Within that same box routinely superimposed on television during most any game broadcast, Red Sox pitchers and their catcher attempt to execute their daily strategy.

"There are different ways you can go," said Varitek, who will be behind the plate tonight when the Sox open the second half of the season at Toronto. "Take [Mike] Timlin: he could four-seam away, sink away, and cut away, so he’s created this."

Now, as if chopping the side of one hand with the other, Varitek formed an 'X’ to mark one corner of the plate.

"One [pitch] goes beneath the barrel [of the bat], one goes over the barrel and one goes across the barrel," Varitek continued. "That’s basically three varieties of one pitch -- a fastball."

This is the game Varitek plays on a nightly basis, the variables being the opponent, his batterymate, and the effectiveness of any particular pitch at any given moment. There is almost always something to work with. Along with the man standing on the mound, Varitek’s job is to devise a strategy and execute it through information obtained from variety of sources -- scouts, coaches, pitchers, his own experiences -- a smaller-scale challenge akin to a football coach devising a weekly game plan.

Through the All-Star break this year, for those who believe in such things, Varitek has a catcher’s ERA of 3.80 -- the ERA of Red Sox pitchers when he is behind the plate -- a number that is the best in the American League among though who have caught at least 50 games. (By contrast, the catcher’s ERA of George Kottaras is more than a full run higher, 4.89, though he works almost exclusively with Tim Wakefield.) That number is not a commentary on Varitek so much as it a reflection of the harmony that generally exists between Red Sox pitchers and their starting catcher, a man widely regarded throughout baseball as one of the best in the game when it comes to handling a pitching staff.

Varitek shook his head when asked if he had a general philosophy on pitching: "There’s no one way to get people out because every [pitcher] is good at something."

Or, more precisely, something different.

To read Mr. Massarotti's complete article (definitely worth a read), click here.

Note: Due to some scheduled maintenance on my computer set for tomorrow through the weekend...I will not be updating again until Monday.

Hopefully the weekend will be quiet, with the exception of two or three Red Sox wins of course!

(I didn't have any photos of me working on my laptop, but I figured one of Jason on his would be better choice anyway!)

The Collection of R.L. (Becky) Cooley

July 13-14, 2009

Many of you will remember the beautiful photos taken by Becky in May during the Red Sox @ Angels series (see my May 13-14th news). I received so many comments on her photography and the fact that she shared them with us. Well, not only have I added more, in fact, an entire album, but I am also adding excerpts from the lovely emails her brother Mike sent me this weekend.

With both Mike and Becky's permission...

Hi Erin,

I wanted to start this off by letting you know how much our ENTIRE family enjoys your website. My sons are self professed Tek experts/fans and often check your site for facts and figures. I could not think of a major leaguer in this day and age better than Jason Varitek for my boys to emulate. He is the consummate professional and always conducts his self with the utmost respect for his fans and for the game with which he has been such a positive role model. And of course, to look at the latest of their Aunt Becky's photos.

Beck (aka RL Cooley) has been going to college, is in the process of completing her degree in photojournalism and is a single Mom of two great young men. We are all very proud of her. And we all really do bug her to travel to Angels Stadium when the Red Sox are in town and she never turns us down. She is a great person and adores her niece and nephews. The word no never leaves her lips.

I am a football coach by trade. I'm not prone to write fans letters, etc. But, I felt the overwhelming need to let you know what was happening with my sister, my confidant and my best friend.

Shortly after finals (which she aced due to numerous Varitek photos. Her professor couldn't say enough great things about her 3 day shoot), she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She is still feeling fairly poor, but we can't seem to keep her down. I've never witnessed such a positive outlook. She is an amazingly strong woman.

She is working very hard to get her strength back as we have all decided she needs to take a trip to Fenway before seasons end. She's not been since 1984 on a trip back east showing horses with our Father. Both she and Dad cried as they stood in the stands. There is nothing like it and we want her to get back there again to watch her beloved Red Sox play again in their natural habitat.

She has a laptop and is slowly pecking away at her Flickr photostream. She has told me it's what she loves to do and it keeps her mind sharp. The doctors and nurses have been logging onto your site to check out Beck's pictures. Because we brag on her to whomever will listen!

Beck shared with me just last night, as I was helping her shave her head, which was a very surreal experience for this tough old coach as she always shaves my head for me. I found myself on the verge of tears and my hands were shaking. I kept thinking to myself, "Why her God?". She stopped me in my tracks as she turned around in her chair, took my hand, smiled like an angel and said, "Mikey, why not? It's just my turn in the barrel, that's all. Now shave off the wee bit of hair I have left on my noggin please! Chop, chop!". I cried. I couldn't help it.

I've tried very hard to be strong for her. But, in writing that letter to you, it brought to the forefront for me just how much she means to everyone she has touched.

Thanks for your kind words. I've passed them on to Beck and, of course she smiled and said, "See Michael, even Erin has my back on this one!"

She would be honored to have you post her own "album" and be in the company of the likes of Kelly O'Connor, to which she garners a great amount of respect. She thanks you for seeing what she's trying to do with her craft - her talent for seeing life through the eye of a camera.

Again, keep up the phenomenal work on your site. My boys just yelled, "Erin's da bomb!" and "Tek's the man!"

Thanks again and have a great weekend, Mike

Mike has promised to keep me updated on Becky's progress, which I will certainly share here with the many fans she has touched with her photography, as well as her kindness in sharing them.

To see all of Becky's great photos, check out her album here.

If you would like to send well-wishes to Becky, please email me (erin@jason-varitek.com) or if you are a member of the site's MySpace page, leave me a message, and I will be happy to post them this week so she can read them all in one place!

Also:

Tek-nically Speaking...

"What is great about Wake is that he has assumed so many roles for this team throughout the years. He has pitched a lot of innings. He has started and then relieved the next day. He's gone to the bullpen and back to the rotation. He's had to give up the ball in the post-season because of injury. And this year he has been as good as he's ever been and he pretty much saved us early in the season when we really needed a boost." -- Jason on friend and teammate Tim Wakefield, from an article in the Eagle Tribune.

"Jason Varitek (B+) -- Know where the Red Sox ranked last season among the 30 big league clubs in OPS from their catchers? That would be 26th (and 13th in the AL). Know where they rank this year? Fifth (and third). Varitek isn't quite the All-Star catcher who backstopped this team at the height of his career, but he's had a nice first half while giving the Red Sox more from the position than just about any team in baseball. Nice comeback. Nice story." -- Tony Massarotti's Red Sox mid-season report card.

Just Another Saturday Night At Fenway...

July 12, 2009

Final Score: Red Sox 15, Royals 9

John Smoltz finally felt as if he contributed to the Boston Red Sox. He doesn't expect it to be for the last time.

Smoltz got his first win for Boston, Kevin Youkilis hit two home runs, and both Jason Varitek and David Ortiz each added a homer to lift the Red Sox over the Kansas City Royals 15-9 Saturday night.

"I feel like I've checked in," Smoltz said. "It has been a long time, but this is not a feel-good story. I believe this team will be in position to win every time I go out there and the best is yet to come."

Smoltz struck out seven over five innings, allowing one run on four hits. He struck out four batters in a row over the second and third inning capped off by called third strikes that painted the corner on Miguel Olivo and Tony Pena.

The Red Sox scored three in the first and took advantage of four Kansas City blunders.

David DeJesus misplayed Dustin Pedroia's triple, then Tony Pena misplayed Jason Bay's grounder and failed to force out Ortiz at second allowing Youkilis to score and Ortiz to advance to third. Jacoby Ellsbury then hit a deep fly to left and Jose Guillen thought it was the final out and initially began running in before remembering that Ortiz was tagging up at third. Catcher Olivo made the final mistake when he was charged with a throwing error.

Youkilis' two-run homer capped a three-run second before Varitek tied his 2008 output with his 13th home run to make it 7-0 after three.

Ortiz increased Boston's lead to 9-0 when hit a two-run homer off reliever Ron Mahay, who then retired seven straight.

Even with a 9-1 lead, things got dicey for Boston in the sixth when Justin Masterson allowed five straight batters to reach and gave up a two-run shot to Mike Jacobs.

Manny Delcarmen replaced Masterson and promptly walked DeJesus to load the bases. Ryan Freel followed with a flare to right that J.D. Drew scooped up and in one motion threw a strike to Jason Varitek, stretching out like a first baseman at the plate, forcing Olivo and keeping it a 9-4 game. No single and no run.

"I think that was the first part of the play, just catching it, knocking it down, doing something because I was caught in between," Drew said. "Then once it's in my glove, I've always naturally gotten rid of the ball pretty fast so I was just trying to make a strong throw, a good throw for Tek to handle and try to throw it all the way in the air and it worked out that way."

"Bad read — He's going back to tag up on a low line drive. You can't go back and tag. ... You're not going to score," Royals manager Trey Hillman said. "It's not a read the third base coach can make for you."

"Probably saved the game right there," Francona said. "What happened afterward would have been a lot worse."

Guillen led off the seventh with a solo shot to pull the Royals to 9-7 and then Okajima gave up a pair of singles before being replaced by Bard, who had retired 19 straight coming in. He struck out Olivo and pinch-hitter Brayan Pena before getting DeJesus to ground out.

Boston batted around in the seventh and eighth adding three runs in each, highlighted by Youkilis' second home run of the game and 16th of the season with a solo shot sandwiched around two unearned runs by Kansas City off Bard.

Nick Green had the big hit in the seventh, a two-run single, but Jason Varitek struck the key blow, a bases-loaded grounder to first.

Billy Butler threw home, and it looked like the Royals might get a double play to end the inning. Instead, catcher Miguel Olivo double-clutched and bounced his throw into right field. It was the Royals’ third error of the game.

Royals manager Trey Hillman argued that Varitek was out of the baseline, but to no avail. He continued making his case after the inning and was ejected by plate umpire Todd Tichenor (the same umpire who ejected Jason and Terry Francona as well as the Twins' Mike Redmond and Ron Gardenhire in Minnesota on May 28th).

As for Bard, if he didn't do what he did, it could have been another tough-to-take loss.

"The last five times out or so he has been as good as anybody can be," Smoltz said. "This is a kid with a dynamic arm. It's fun to watch."

Tek-nically Speaking...

"I was kidding Tek, 'What'd you have to stretch that far for? I hit you right in the chest!'. He looked like a professional first baseman." -- J.D. Drew on his incredible throw to Jason to keep Manual Olivo from scoring in the 6th.

For video of the Drew to Varitek 9-2 force at home, click here.

For video of Tek's home run, click here.

For a larger version of the photo above, click here.

And Beckett's 100th Win On Sunday Afternoon....

"Josh is definitely one that desires that role that he's in for us, as our ace." -- Jason after the game.

Josh Beckett capped a brilliant first half of the season with a three-hitter, joining teammate Tim Wakefield as the only 11-game winners in the AL as the Boston Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 6-0 Sunday.

Beckett retired the first nine batters, five on strikeouts, and picked up his 100th career victory. It was his second shutout and complete game of the season following his 3-0 win over Atlanta on June 20th.

He finished with seven strikeouts and no walks and threw just 94 pitches. It was a fitting end to a stretch in which he went 9-1 with a 2.14 ERA after struggling at 2-2 with a 7.22 ERA through April.

Beckett allowed a ground-ball double down the right-field line to David DeJesus leading off the fourth and singles by Mitch Maier and Mark Teahen in the seventh.

Rookie Aaron Bates, called up last Monday, went 3 for 4 with two doubles and an RBI, and stabbed a line drive by Brayan Pena for the second out of the fifth.

Bruce Chen and five Royals relievers walked nine batters.

Boston scored a run in the first on Kevin Youkilis' RBI single and three in the fourth when Bates bashed a run-scoring double, David Ortiz grounded out for another RBI and Jason Varitek walked with the bases loaded.

The fifth run came across in the fifth when Nick Green, who had walked and taken third on a single by Bates, scored on Jacoby Ellsbury's double-play grounder. Rocco Baldelli doubled in the final run in the eighth.

For video of Jason's post-game interview, click here.

For a larger version of the photo above, click here.

Jason's current stats: AVG .239 | HR 13 | RBI 38 | OBP .348 | SLG .478

Lester Dominates, Sox Win 1-0 Against Royals

July 11, 2009

"He's a boy growing into a man. He's done that over the last few years. Just look at him. He's a big boy. He's a big freaking boy. After he had battled through what he had battled through three years ago, he's gotten a lot stronger and grown into his frame." -- Jason talking about Jon Lester during his post-game interview.

From John Tomase's column in the Boston Herald this morning:

The Royals only managed four hits off Lester (three by Mark Teahen), but that's four more than they recorded against him last May when Lester was still recovering from cancer treatments. Lester sees himself as a more complete pitcher today.

"I think my stuff is a lot better, velocity-wise, command-wise," he said. "In May of last year, I was throwing 91-92, or maybe 93-94 if I got on it. Obviously this year I'm a little stronger and further away from treatment. It seems like the further and further I get, the better I feel."

The days of Lester throwing 91 or 92 are long gone. In the first inning, he struck out Jose Guillen with a 97-mph heater.

Catcher Jason Varitek wouldn't be surprised if the radar gun one day reads 99. Lester is still only 25, and while he may be listed at 6-foot-2, 190 pounds, he looks more like a solid 225 or 230.

The Royals barely threatened against him last night. Their best chance came in the seventh when an error and single put runners on first and second with no outs. But Baldelli - playing only because starter Jacoby Ellsbury had been ejected for throwing his helmet after getting cut down at the plate - erased Teahen trying to advance to second.

Lester's lifetime numbers against the Royals are now truly terrifying. After striking out eight last night, he's 3-1 with a 1.20 ERA against them. In 30 innings, he has allowed 11 hits and four runs. Three of his appearances have been shutouts.

To read Mr. Tomase's complete column, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"He loves to be out there, he loves to play the game, he plays the game right. You see the amount of enthusiasm he plays with. He's just a big part of this team." -- Jason on Dustin Pedroia, from the column of Providence Journal sportswriter Dan Barbarisi.

To see video of Jason's other post-game comments , click here (scroll down for video).

Raffle Tickets...Get Your Raffle Tickets...

July 10, 2009

For the chance to win tickets to a RED SOX vs. YANKEES Game with three of your closest friends!

There's still time...

Entry Deadline: 11:00 AM EDT, August 20, 2009

Grand Prize:

- Winner will receive 4 Premium Tickets to the August 22, 2009 Sox vs. Yankees game at Fenway Park (Game Time 4:10 PM)

- Winner and 3 guests will enjoy a pregame tour of Fenway Park

- Winner will receive a $100.00 gift certificate to Tresca Restaurant (located in Boston' historic North End)

- Winner will receive an autographed 8 x 10 photo of Jason

Help Jason and the Celebrities for Charity Foundation in their efforts to provide support to local charities and, in return, you could be enjoy an incredible experience at Fenway this summer!

Tickets start at just $2.00 each and decrease for orders of more than 5 tickets.

The CFC Foundation is utilizing NetRaffle to conduct this raffle and tickets are only available online at their web site.

For more info, check out their Charity Raffles page here.

And...

Also from the Celebrities for Charity Foundation:

Help Jason in his efforts to support Saints Medical Center and, in return, you could have Jason present you with his game-used and autographed equipment.

Tickets start at just $2.00 each and decrease for orders of more than 5 tickets.

Grand Prize:

- Winner will be presented, personally by Jason Varitek at a Red Sox Game, his game-used and autographed Mask, Chest Protector, and Shin Guards.

- Winner will receive 4 tickets to a Red Sox Game (where the equipment will be presented).

- Winner will receive an on field tour of Fenway Park before the game.

Entry Deadline: 11:00 AM EDT, August 3, 2009.

For complete details and to order your tickets, click here.

*You must be 18 years of age, or older, to purchase a ticket.

"Varitek, BoSox Beat A's"

July 8, 2009

From the Sports Network, Boston Globe and WEEI this morning:

Jason Varitek finished 2-for-4 with two RBI as Boston topped Oakland, 5-2, in the middle contest of a three-game set at Fenway Park.

Jason Bay homered among his two hits and scored twice for the Red Sox, who recovered from Monday's shutout loss and have won two of three.

Josh Beckett (10-3) earned the win by scattering six hits and a pair of runs over 6 2/3 innings. Jonathan Papelbon got the final three outs for his 21st save.

"He's been our bulldog," Jason Varitek said. "When he's healthy, he can really do harm with a baseball."

Dana Eveland (1-3) was charged in the loss for six hits and four runs over just 2 2/3 frames.

Beckett didn't encounter trouble until the fifth, as Ryan Sweeney doubled and Mark Ellis walked with two down before Adam Kennedy doubled home the former for a 4-2 game. Further damage was contained when Orlando Cabrera grounded to short.

Pedroia's two-out RBI single in the sixth boosted Boston's lead to three runs, then the A's put two on in the seventh. Kurt Suzuki reached on a fielding error to start the inning then Ellis reached on a dribbler to the mound, signaling Beckett's departure.

Hideki Okajima retired Kennedy on a ground out to keep the three-run cushion intact.

Justin Masterson turned in a scoreless eighth and Papelbon struck out three in the ninth to wrap up the win.

Scott Hairston deposited a pitch deep off one of the light towers above the Green Monster in the first inning, then Bay launched one to left-center in the second.

Later in the frame, after the bases were loaded on a David Ortiz double, single by Varitek and walk to Jacoby Ellsbury, Nick Green bounced into a double play to score a run.

Eveland once again loaded the bases in the third with two outs but was burned when Varitek singled home a pair for a 4-1 Red Sox lead.

Beckett joined teammate and fellow All-Star Tim Wakefield with 10 wins, making the Red Sox the first team in baseball with two 10-game winners.

"I didn’t even realize that," Varitek said. "It's great. Wake's picked up so many times at being the guy early on, when we were getting the rest of the starting staff on track, he's picked us up. Wake's done a great job, Josh has settled in, and (Jon Lester) doesn't quite have 10 wins but he's been a great part of our starting staff. Brad Penny has given us quality starts and I think through time, John (Smoltz) will do the same."

To see a larger version of the photo, click here.

To see video of Jason's two-run single, click here.

To see video of Jason's post-game interview, click here.

Tek Stat:

After last night's game, Jason now has 690 career RBI, tying him with Nomar Garciaparra for 15th place on the Red Sox' All-Time List.

Jason's current stats: AVG .244 | HR 12 | RBI 36 | OBP .346 | SLG .480

Congratulations To The Red Sox All-Stars!

July 5, 2009 - Updated with final vote totals for AL catchers (*see below)

...especially Tim Wakefield - it was long overdue!

"I feel great for Wake, and obviously the reception here was well taken when they made that announcement. That's awesome for him, and it's a great tribute because he's been a big part of this organization for a long, long time." -- Jason in his post-game comments about Tim's selection to the All-Star Game.

From RedSox.com:

The Boston Red Sox, owners of the American League's best record, are the deserving leaders, with six selections to the AL All-Star team, announced on Sunday afternoon.

Boston's representatives include two starters -- second baseman Dustin Pedroia and outfielder Jason Bay -- and Tim Wakefield, the veteran knuckleball pitcher who will be making his All-Star debut at age 42.

The players were responsible for adding closer Jonathan Papelbon, while AL manager Joe Maddon added first baseman Kevin Youkilis to his selection of Wakefield.

Unfortunately...

Jason was not selected for the All-Star game this year. Joe Mauer, who was 1st in fan voting throughout (4,335,739), and Victor Martinez, 5th in the fan vote (1,087,761), are the A.L catchers. A third catcher was not added to the roster this year for either league - something that has been done in the past.

*Again, I want to thank everyone for voting for the Captain! Throughout the voting, which started on April 22nd, he was in second place (with the exception of the week prior to June 9th) behind Joe Mauer. His total votes: 2,225,630.

Final vote totals:

1. Joe Mauer (Twins) - 4,335,739

2. Jason Varitek (Red Sox) - 2,225.630

3. Jorge Posada (Yankees) - 1,916,436

4. Jarrod Saltalamacchia (Rangers) - 1,497,588

5. Victor Martinez (Indians) - 1,087,761

To watch video of Jason's post-game comments about Tim, click here.

Yes, that is Tek and Wake on the mound! To see a larger version, click here.

And...

Congratulations to the Red Sox on their exciting win today at Fenway Park.

David Ortiz had a tying RBI single and Mark Kotsay added a key two-run hit during a five-run seventh inning, and the Boston Red Sox avoided a three-game sweep by beating the Seattle Mariners 8-4.

Dustin Pedroia homered among his three hits for the Red Sox, who have not been swept at home this season. They also averted their first three-game losing streak at Fenway Park, where they improved to 26-12.

Ortiz and Jacoby Ellsbury also each hit solo homers.

Tek was 1-3 today with a single.

"Captain America" Launched The Fireworks...

July 4, 2009 - Have a safe and happy Holiday weekend!

...unfortunately, it would be the only display of fireworks in a loss to the Mariners!

From Ian Browne's post-game column:

All the Mariners needed was for a ball to fall in somewhere, and that's exactly what happened when Chris Woodward's pop fly into short right fell out of the reach of a tumbling Dustin Pedroia. The RBI single put the Mariners in front for good in a game that had been tied since the top of the fifth.

Brad Penny turned in another solid start for the Sox, giving up six hits and two runs over six innings. The righty also walked one and struck out six.

Jason Varitek (2 for 3) gave the Red Sox one loud burst of offense in the bottom of the second, crushing a two-run homer into the Monster Seats against Garrett Olson to make it 2-0. It was Varitek's 12th homer of the season, his first at Fenway since May 22nd.

The Mariners got one of the runs back on an RBI double by Russell Branyan in the third. It was Branyan who again came through, producing a sacrifice fly to left in the fifth.

The Red Sox had a promising opportunity to take the lead in the sixth, when Varitek clubbed a single to left to put runners on first and third with nobody out. But Rocco Baldelli got hung up between third and home on a fielder's-choice grounder back to the mound by Jacoby Ellsbury. That reduced the rally to first and second with one out, and things fizzled out from there.

To see video of Jason's two-run homer, click here.

To see video of his post-game interview, click here.

To see photos and screen captures of Jason's "Captain America" gear, click here.

To see game photos, click here.

Tek Stats:

The Captain...

- has 688 career RBI, moving him past Wade Boggs (687) for 16th place on the Red Sox all-time list (15th - Nomar Garciaparra, 690).

- is on pace for 28 home runs with an OPS of .833. He is currently ranked 4th among Major League catchers with at least 200 plate appearances in OPS, behind only Mauer (1.118), McCann (.896), and Napoli (.876).

- has only has 1 error, which equates to a .998 Fielding% (the best in the majors for all catchers).

- has allowed no passed balls yet this year. His WP+PB/G is a mere .227 (also the best in the majors). In case you are unfamiliar with this stat, it means Wild Pitches + Passed Balls allowed per game, or in layman's terms, Jason Varitek is the best catcher in baseball at minimizing passed balls and wild pitches from his pitching staff.

- leads the American League in CERA (Catcher Earned Run Average) which means the pitching staff’s ERA when he is catching and calling the game for them is 3.85.

*Thank you to both Tim and Chris (check out Chris' blog here).

Jason's current stats: AVG .240 | HR 12 | RBI 34 | OBP .343 | SLG .490

The Jason Varitek Fourth Of July Equipment Raffle

July 3, 2009

Here's your chance to have Jason Varitek personally present you with his game-used and autographed equipment...and I have a "sneak peak" of it right here!

From the Celebrities for Charity organization and NetRaffle.org:

Help Jason in his efforts to support Saints Medical Center and, in return, you could have Jason present you with his game-used and autographed equipment.

Tickets start at just $2.00 each and decrease for orders of more than 5 tickets.

Grand Prize:

- Winner will be presented, personally by Jason Varitek at a Red Sox Game, his game-used and autographed Mask, Chest Protector, and Shin Guards.

- Winner will receive 4 tickets to a Red Sox Game (where the equipment will be presented).

- Winner will receive an on field tour of Fenway Park before the game.

Entry Deadline: 11:00 AM EDT, August 3, 2009.

For complete details and to order your tickets, click here.

*You must be 18 years of age, or older, to purchase a ticket.

The equipment was made by All-Star Sports, and according to Stan Jurga, Jr., owner of All-Star, the gear is very similar to last year's Fourth of July gear, but the chest protector (their new CP30 model) has an added star above the "All-Star" name and a large white accent stripe down the center. As Stan said, "We think it pops even more than last year’s!"

To see a larger versions of the gear, click here.

*Thank you to Stan and Brad Jurga for the "sneak peak" photos and information, and also to Jon from Celebrities for Charity.

Also Today:

All-Star Voting Update

"Catcher: Jason Varitek, Boston: This is no slight to Joe Mauer, one of baseball's best players and one of the most fun to watch. But is there anyone who looks like a ballplayer quite as much as Varitek? If he broke out some story about catching the Dean brothers in his early days, I wouldn't be a bit surprised."-- Sports Illustrated "Inside Baseball" writer Tim Marchman in his column yesterday on his picks (and why) for the 2009 All-Star Game.

From MLB.com:

The fans have spoken. The votes are in. The next step comes Sunday, when the 2009 All-Star Game Selection Show will air on TBS from 1-2 p.m. ET, and fans will find out if their favorite players made it.

After more than two months of faithfully voting up to 25 times online and punching ballpark ballots, Major League Baseball fans have spoken loudly to decide starting position players for the 80th All-Star Game on July 14 at Busch Stadium.

Fan voting continued at a record pace this year with 19.2 million votes cast on Wednesday as the 11:59 ET deadline approached.

After the 32-man teams are announced, fans will then be allowed to vote for the 33rd and final player on each All-Star team. Balloting begins immediately following that announcement show and continues until 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 9. Teams and individual fan bases that are involved will try to throw the most forceful grassroots campaigns behind their candidates, and the two winners will be announced on MLB.com shortly thereafter.

Again, thank you to everyone who voted for Jason, and for the wonderful emails!

Event Postponed!

July 2, 2009

The Jason Varitek Celebrity Putt-Putt Tournament has been rescheduled!

Due to poor weather conditions, Jason's tournament has been postponed until Monday, September 14th, 2009.

The event will still take place at the Ferncroft Country Club in Middleton, Massachusetts from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

The good news is, you still have time to purchase spectator tickets, which are $23.00 per person! Click here.

Comeback Win For Sox In 11 Innings

July 1, 2009

"It was a big character win for us. You can't look at one thing, there were a lot of contributions today...a lot of little things."-- Jason, after the game.

From NESN:

Heading into the ninth inning on Wednesday afternoon, Baltimore held a 5-1 lead, but that’s before the Red Sox’ bats finally woke up.

Following a walk to Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis stung a two-run homer to start the late rally. A couple strikeouts and two walks later, pinch hitter Rocco Baldelli laced a two-run single up the middle to tie things up at five apiece.

After brilliant relief work by the Sox pen, Jacoby Ellsbury, Jeff Bailey and Julio Lugo were able to plate the eventual game-winning run with two hits and a sacrifice to give the Sox the 6-5 victory in the 11th.

Pinch hitter Rocco Baldelli came in for shortstop Nick Green in the ninth, and with two down and the bases juiced, the pride of Rhode Island smacked a base hit up the middle on a 1-1 heater to even things up at five and eventually send the game into extras. Baldelli would have never got to that spot if it weren’t for Jeff Bailey and Jason Varitek drawing consecutive walks to load 'em up.

The O's got to starter Josh Beckett with one run in the first, one in the second thanks to a Luke Scott homer, two more in the third and one more in the fourth when Ty Wigginton went deep. Beckett was able to settle down after Wigginton’s blast and went on to retire 12 in row before getting yanked after the seventh inning. The ace ended up allowing five earned runs on six hits while striking out five.

Final Score: Red Sox 6, Orioles 5

To read NESN's full game summary, click here.

To see video of Jason's interview, click here.

Don't Forget...

The MLB "roundtable interview"

The interview, with Jason, Tim Wakefield and David Ortiz will be shown in it's entirety on Sunday's special edition of the Red Sox Report on NESN at 10:30 p.m., and again on Tuesday, July 7th at 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

The trio shared their thoughts about the passion of the Sox fans after Fenway's 500th straight sellout this past week. They are the only remaining members of the team from the beginning of the sellout that started on May 15, 2003.

Saturday is July 4th, and you know what that means!

Tek will be wearing special catcher's gear designed by All-Star for the holiday. The gear will then be sold on MLB.com's auction site with proceeds benefitting one of Tek's favorite charities.

Hopefully, I will have a sneak peak photo to post of the gear prior to Saturday's game (Stan, are you reading this? send me a sneak peak!).

The Jason Varitek Celebrity Putt Putt Tournament

...is tomorrow at Ferncroft Country Club in Middleton, Massachusetts. If you attend and would like to share your photos or story or both, please email me (erin@jason-varitek.com)!

All-Star Voting Update: Tek Still In Second Place

June 30, 2009 - Evening Update (see below)

Only two days left to vote!

According to MLB.com 's latest update...

"With 2,851,819 votes, Twins catcher Joe Mauer is within striking distance of both Jeter and Longoria. Mauer holds a 1.45 million-vote lead over Boston's Jason Varitek, who is followed by the Yankees' Jorge Posada and the Rangers' Jarrod Saltalamacchia."

Remember, while it looks impossible that he will ever catch up to and pass Mauer (who has had a great season so far), the Captain could still go to the All-Star Game - his fourth - if he is selected once again by the players, or the managers. The starting spot goes to the winner in fan voting. The backup goes to the winner in player voting, or the second place finisher if the top two players are the same for both the fan vote and the player vote.

Vote totals so far:

1. Joe Mauer (Twins) - 2,851,819

2. Jason Varitek (Red Sox) - 1,399,946

3. Jorge Posada (Yankees) - 1,095,219

4. Jarrod Saltalamacchia (Rangers) - 1,002,391

5. Victor Martinez (Indians) - 867,613

Thank you to everyone for votin', and let's keep it goin'! Voting ends in two days!

Starting rosters will be announced during the 2009 All-Star Game Selection Show presented by Pepsi on TBS this Sunday. Fans will then be able to select the final player on each team via the 2009 All-Star Game Sprint Final Vote at MLB.com.

And the voting doesn't end there. Fans will have the opportunity to participate in the official voting for the Ted Williams Most Valuable Player Award presented by Chevrolet at the Midsummer Classic via the 2009 All-Star Game Sprint MVP Vote at MLB.com.

Cast your votes at MLB.com (just look for the "Vote Now" link!).

Tonight's Game:

Hey, where's everybody going?

From the Boston Herald and the Globe -

The first clue that things were about to go horribly wrong for the Red Sox came at the end of the sixth inning, as the entire infield trotted back to the third-base dugout after Felix Pie grounded out.

Small problem: There were only two out.

Jason Varitek stood at home plate, hands on hips and confusion on his face. The outfielders and Varitek stayed put.

"I think Pedey was leading the charge. I looked up and saw Tek standing there all by himself. The first thing I think is I must be nuts. I’ve never seen that," said Francona. "Pedey came in, and said, 'I led the charge. I [screwed] up.' And everybody followed him. I'm looking down at my card, like what the [heck] did I miss."

But in dropping an 11-10 decision to the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards, the Red Sox suffered what may well be the worst loss of the Terry Francona era. There they were, leading 10-1, the game so out of hand that Francona pulled catcher Jason Varitek from the game, giving some playing time to rookie George Kottaras.

By the time it was over, a parade of Red Sox relievers had been bombarded by the feisty young Orioles, finally pulling ahead in the bottom of the eighth when Nick Markakis lined a two-run double to left-center off closer Jonathan Papelbon.

It ended with Jason Bay striking out, and for the first time since 1989 the Red Sox had blown a nine-run lead.

"We pretty much imploded," Papelbon said. "I can't think of any better word to use."

Also Tonight:

"The Wieters-Varitek connection"

From MASN's Steve Melewski -

They went to the same college. They are both catchers and both are switch hitters.

O's catcher Matt Wieters has been compared to Boston's Jason Varitek since the day he walked on to the Georgia Tech campus, where Varitek once put up amazing numbers.

Varitek was a three-time All-American at Tech and was named Baseball America's college Player of the Year in 1993. Wieters put up his big numbers at Tech from 2005 to 2007.

"He would come back to Tech for baseball banquets and other events. He's definitely a guy you can learn from and just see his baseball knowledge and draw from it however you can," Wieters said.

"This is the first time I've seen him play in person. It's like watching film from the dugout, because you want to see how he's calling a game and how he is going about it and take from that."

To read Mr. Melewski's entire column, click here.

"Picnic In The Park" Auction

June 29, 2009 - Evening Update (see below)

From NESN this afternoon:

The Red Sox will be holding a one-of-a-kind auction at their 2009 Picnic in the Park presented by Ace Ticket. The exciting event will be held at Fenway Park exactly one hour following the end of the July 5 home game against the Seattle Mariners. The game is scheduled for a 1:35 p.m. start time.

The Red Sox’ Wives are holding the auctions, for which proceeds will benefit the Red Sox Foundation’s charitable programs.

Some of the auction prizes include a pitching lesson with Justin Masterson, meetings with Jacoby Ellsbury and Jason Varitek, playing a board game against Mike Lowell, playing video games against Jonathan Papelbon, watching a movie with David Ortiz, rolling sushi with the Okajimas, a batting lesson from Kevin Youkilis and much more.

Tickets for the event can be purchased at www.redsoxfoundation.org or by calling (617)226-6440. Tickets are $350 for general admission; MVP tickets are $600, which include an autographed baseball signed by a Red Sox Hall of Famer, a bleacher ticket to the July 5 game against the Mariners and other amenities.

Fans who are unable to attend the picnic can still bid on the auction items by placing proxy bids through the Red Sox Foundation. Proxy bids must be in by July 5 at noon. To place a bid, contact Gena Borson at (617)226-6440 or email the Red Sox Foundation at redsoxfoundation@redsox.com.

To read Deanna's (above) "Picnic in the Park" fan story, click here.

Other fan stories can be found here.

Also Today:

Looking for a gift for the little Red Sox fan in your life or perhaps something to keep him busy for long summer road trips?

Then how about The Red Sox Coloring and Activity Book, packed with more than 50 pages of pictures to color and fun activities to keep that little fan busy!

This is the latest and most updated edition of the book from Hawk Publishing and features brand new illustrations and images of such fan favorites as Jonathan Papelbon, Jacoby Ellsbury and Jason Varitek, along with an all new World Series Championship Crossword Puzzle and updated Player Challenge Game.

The books are just $11.95 each and can be purchased online here.

To check out a larger pic of little guy/big fan Patrick Julian and his brothers here (9th row).

How 'bout that game...

Tek goes 2-4 with an RBI and a run as Sox win in Baltimore!

J.D. Drew finished a double short of the cycle and drove in two runs, while Jon Lester turned in seven scoreless innings, as Boston downed Baltimore, 4-0, in the opener of a three-game set from Camden Yards.

Dustin Pedroia knocked in a run, and Jason Varitek added two hits and drove in the other run for the Red Sox, who have won seven of their last nine games.

Lester (7-6) scattered five hits while fanning eight without a walk to claim victory for his second straight start and for the fourth time in five decisions. Jonathan Papelbon recorded the final out for his 19th save.

The Sox picked up a run in the first, as Drew led off with a triple and scored when Pedroia followed with a single.

Three more runs came home in the fourth on a Varitek RBI single and a two-run blast later from Drew. Kevin Youkilis had a chance to extend the lead to five, but his drive to deep center was hauled in on a leaping catch by Adam Jones at the wall.

Lester was in control throughout, retiring the side in order in the first, third and sixth innings while not allowing a runner past second base for his entire outing.

Drew singled in the sixth and faced Brian Bass with two down in the eighth and Varitek on second but grounded to second for the final out to derail his chance for the cycle.

Manny Delcarmen and Hideki Okajima combined to pitch a scoreless eighth. Ramon Ramirez allowed a single to Wigginton and walked Melvin Mora with two down before giving way to Papelbon. He was helped out by Jason Bay's diving catch in left on a shallow fly by Matt Wieters to end the game.

Jason's current stats: AVG .240 | HR 11 | RBI 31 | OBP .335 | SLG .485

To see game photos, click here.

To see Tek's post-game interview, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"It's not really that new. It's close for our fans, an easy trip and tickets are available. That makes it a fun trip for people to come here. It doesn't hurt, that's for sure. Anytime you can go anywhere and have support, it's great for your organization and team. But it still comes down to making plays on the field. It's great that we have that support in a lot of places." -- Jason, speaking to MASN, on the large number of Sox fans that invade Camden Yards turning it into "Fenway South".

You Can Still Bid For A Good Cause...

June 28, 2009 - Afternoon Update (see below)

...And For Some Great Gear!

There is still time to bid on Jason's game-worn gear on MLB.com:

The camouflage gear worn on Memorial Day (5/25/09 vs. Minnesota Twins) to honor the troops has a high bid of $1,000. Bidding ends July 17th.

Proceeds from the auction benefit the Massachusetts Soldiers Legacy Fund.

To check out the auction and to place your bid, click here.

And:

The Mother's Day gear (worn on 5/10/09 vs. Tampa Bay Rays) has a high bid of $1300. Bidding ends this week, June 30th!

Proceeds from the auction benefit the Susan G. Koman for the Cure Foundation.

To check out this auction and to place your bid, click here.

Both sets include his mask, shin guards and chest protector, all made by All-Star.

Today's Game:

(NESN) Sox Lose 2-1 to the Atlanta Braves, but not without a fight!

Dirt Dog:

Jason Varitek smacked a would-be single off the mitt of sprawling second baseman Kelly Johnson in the top of the seventh and as right fielder Jeff Francoeur took his time getting the ball, the Sox captain turned on the boosters and took second base for his 16th double of the season. Tek also ripped an RBI single in the top of the ninth to plate the Sox’ lone run.

"It'll be good to get our full lineup back, but sometimes it's fun to play National League teams because the games are quicker," said Jason Varitek after the game.

To see photos from the game, click here.

To see video of Jason's RBI single in the ninth, click here.

Jason's current stats: AVG .235 | HR 11 | RBI 30 | OBP .332 | SLG .485

Tek Stats:

Jason Varitek and David Ortiz are closing in on Manny Ramírez for the Red Sox record for most different ballparks having homered in. Ramírez hit home runs in 25 parks for Boston. Varitek’s home run in Washington on Wednesday gives him 24 parks. Ortiz’s the same night brings him to 23. -- Bill Ballou, from his column this morning in the Worcester Telegram.

From the Kelly O'Connor Collection...

Just one, but it's a beauty!

Check out a larger version of this shot from Kelly, taken during the June 25th Nationals game.

Click here.

And of course, for all of Kelly's photography, check out her site here.

*Thank you Kelly!

Final Reminder, Don't Miss Out...

June 27, 2009

The Jason Varitek Celebrity Putt-Putt Tournament is next week!

The Tournament is scheduled for July 2nd at Ferncroft Country Club in Middleton, Massachusetts.

Spectator tickets are still available and just $23.00 per person.

Money raised from the event will benefit the Saints Medical Center and the Celebrities for Charity Foundation.

To purchase your spectator tickets, click here.

You can check out the fun from previous Putt-Putt's here, here and here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"Josh threw the ball well. He had to pitch out of a little more trouble today but he kept us in the game and we were able to plug away. All through spring, Josh was trying to find himself mechanically. When he throws through me and his mechanics are sound, we can get a good mix of his off-speed pitches to complement his fastball." -- Jason on Josh Beckett's performance in last night's 4-1 win against the Atlanta Braves.

To see photos from last night's game, click here.

"They're Getting A Little Extra From Varitek"

June 25, 2009 - Afternoon Update

Excerpts from Nick Cafardo's column in the Boston Globe this afternoon:

Jason Varitek has had stiffness around his neck for the last 12 days or so and he's been able to keep it pretty quiet. Red Sox manager Terry Francona's lips have been sealed until reporters saw Varitek get a rubdown in the dugout Tuesday night.

Francona jokingly said the media was a little slow catching up to the injury, saying it was an old wound Varitek's been dealing with. According to the captain, he was injured June 12 against the Phillies.

"I don't know how I did it," Varitek said. "I don’t know if it was from whiplash from a foul ball or what. Honestly, I have no idea. We've been treating it and we're staying on top of it and hope it goes away."

In other words, it has not gone away. Varitek had an ice pack virtually everywhere last night - neck, knees, groin, hamstrings. He could barely walk to the locker.

Varitek's production offensively has been timely and his leadership behind the plate is a given.

With the Sox leading, 4-1, last night, he hit a very important home run, an upper deck shot to right with David Ortiz aboard off Nationals starter Craig Stammen.

"I hit it pretty good and it came at a good time," Varitek said.

Hitting coach Dave Magadan believes the neck issue bothers Varitek when he's hitting.

"I think it probably bothers him a little bit more on that left side," he said. "He feels like there's some pitches where he kind of cuts his swing off a little bit. I think he's felt better over the past couple days. He got some work on it. But you can see when he's taking BP, he’s trying to protect. He cuts his swing off if the pitch is coming where he’s got to reach for it."

Sixty percent of Varitek's hits (26 for 43) have been for extra bases, the second-highest ratio in the majors behind Rays first baseman Carlos Pena, whose at 64 percent. Nine of Varitek's last 12 hits (six doubles, three homers) have gone for extra bases. For a guy hitting .229, when he hits safely, it usually means something.

"I'll be honest, it's been frustrating," Varitek said. "I've hit a lot of balls that could have been singles that have been hit right at people. I've always had strength so I can drive the ball. I don't run awful so I can turn some close ones into doubles. It's not that I'm any stronger or anything like that. I'm hitting some balls hard. I wish more would fall in, but hopefully that evens out."

Varitek rarely speaks about himself. Somewhere inside this proud man he must think, "I told you I have something left," although he would never say it. He wanted to show it. He felt he needed to show it. He's hitting just 9 percentage points better than the average he ended his worst season with, though his 11 home runs in 53 games indicate his power stroke has returned.

"It's been frustrating because I haven’t always had the results," Varitek said. "I keep grinding away, but I know I can help us defensively. That still holds a bigger priority for me."

When you start listing the names of players the Red Sox can’t live without, you have to place Varitek high atop that list.

And then there are moments like last night, when you realize he can still do some important things at the plate.

Take a moment and read Mr. Cafardo's complete column on Tek here.

*Check the post below for news and links from last night's game! (I did it at 2 AM after I got home from the game, so please forgive any typos!).

Tek Belts 11th Homer In Win Against Nationals

June 25, 2009

"Tek's swing - that was about as far as you can hit a ball!" -- Terry Francona during his post-game interview.

From the Washington Post this morning:

David Ortiz got his 1,000th RBI, Nick Green played a scary game of dodge-the-bat, and the Boston Red Sox looked right at home again in the nation's capital Wednesday night in a 6-4 victory over the Washington Nationals.

Red Sox Nation invaded Nationals Park for the second consecutive night, their fans stuffing the seats for a crowd of 41,530 - breaking the ballpark record by 13 set in the series opener on Tuesday. So far, it's been worth the trip: Boston has won the first two games by a combined score of 17-7 in its first regular-season visit to Washington since 1971.

Ortiz and Jason Varitek homered, and Jon Lester (6-6) allowed three runs and six hits over six innings for the Red Sox, who have won 16 of 21. Jonathan Papelbon got his 17th save.

One of Washington's hits came because Green was more concerned with a bouncing broken bat that arrived just ahead of Elijah Dukes' routine grounder in the second inning.

The shortstop fended off the flying debris with his right forearm and couldn't field the ball. The bat ended up upright in the grass in shallow left field, and Dukes was awarded a single in a rally that produced the Nationals' only run until the sixth inning.

Craig Stammen (1-3) was perfect for three innings for the Nationals, but the rookie threw a 3-2 changeup to Ortiz with two outs and two on in the fourth. Ortiz launched the ball beyond the center field wall to give him RBI No. 1,000 - along with two more.

Varitek hit a fastball into the bleachers in right-center for a two-run shot in the sixth to give the Red Sox a 6-1 lead. The Nationals scored two in the bottom of the inning on Josh Willingham's single and added another in the seventh on Cristian Guzman's triple, but Ryan Zimmerman's bid to tie the game in the seventh fell a couple of feet short when center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury snagged a deep fly just before bumping into the fence in front of the Red Sox bullpen.

To see photos from the game, click here.

"Varitek Shrugs Off Nagging Injury"

From Red Sox beat writer Ian Browne for MLB.com last night:

The only thing new about Jason Varitek's latest ache or pain is that NESN cameras captured images of the catcher being worked on by trainer Paul Lessard during Tuesday night's win over the Nationals.

As it turns out, Varitek has had some discomfort in his left shoulder and left side of his neck for a while now and he simply never said anything about it to the media.

It's OK," said Varitek. "I don't think you can play my position and not have things that get banged up. It's all right. It's nothing new. Paul wasn't necessarily working on my shoulder, he was working on my neck. It's kind of a combination of both."

Varitek never talks about injuries. Instead, he plays through them. So again, Varitek was in the Red Sox's lineup on Wednesday, batting sixth.

How long has Varitek been dealing with his current ailments? He cut off that line of questioning in mid-sentence.

"That's all I'm going to say about it," Varitek said. "I could go down a list, and if I [sat] because of everything that ever bothered me, I would never play. The most important thing is that I get out on the field."

To read the entire article and see a video of Jason's 2-run homer, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"I use ash, and ash sometimes really doesn't do the same. I've had them break in funny ways this year on different balls. That was a freaky thing. The bat went farther than the ball. The things they have done with the studies, hopefully we'll get some results and get things cleaned up before anyone gets hurt. You get a sharp piece coming at your face it is pretty scary." -- Jason on the flying broken bat that struck Nick Green in the forearm during last night's game.

"Quite a bit. I'll draw a lot from this experience of being able to have the most prepared catcher in all of baseball and I certainly don't anticipate shaking my head too many times. The most committed pitch I can throw is the best pitch I can throw and we go from there." -- John Smoltz in an interview with WEEI on how much he will rely on Jason in his first start with the Sox.

"That was one of the concerns of mine when I went to L.A., because I went for months without ever shaking him off. I was like on 'auto pilot' when Jason caught. You don't see guys shaking Varitek off because of his preparation. You have to think more on your own [in L.A.], and that's where you get spoiled with Jason because then you can just let him call the whole game." -- Derek Lowe during a radio interview with WEEI's Joe Castiglione on June 19th (better late than never!).

Sox Win In Washington, 11-3

June 24, 2009

From Ian Browne at MLB.com:

They are opportunistic by nature, and that is just one reason the Red Sox lead the American League with 43 wins. And creating chances for the opponent has certainly been one of the culprits in the Washington Nationals having the fewest victories (20) in the Majors.

A perfect tale of the two teams presented itself in the top of the seventh inning of an 11-3 triumph by the Red Sox in the opener of a three-game series on Tuesday night at Nationals Park.

With the game locked in a 3-3 tie, Kevin Youkilis hit a grounder to third, and the Red Sox were about to have two outs and nobody on base. But Ryan Zimmerman's throw to first one-hopped Nick Johnson for an error, and Boston had life. The error by Zimmerman was a Major League-leading 65th by Washington.

Jason Bay then struck a single to left and Youkilis aggressively roared to third. Bay moved to second on the throw, and the Nationals had pitcher Julian Tavarez issued an intentional walk to Mike Lowell. The hope was that Jason Varitek would hit into an inning-ending double play.

Instead, the captain got the job done, lofting a sacrifice fly to left to put the Red Sox ahead for good in a game that had several momentum shifts.

Once that door was opened a little -- thanks to Zimmerman's throw and the subsequent hustle of Youkilis -- the Red Sox busted it open.

They erupted for six in the eighth and added another in the ninth.

It was the first time the Red Sox played a game in Washington, D.C., since Sept. 19, 1971, when they beat a Senators team managed by Ted Williams.

Brad Penny went 5 2/3 innings for the Sox, giving up six hits and three runs. anny Delcarmen recorded just one out, but it was good enough to earn him the win.

It was Bay that started the process of creating breathing room, when he smoked a two-run single to left with one out in the eighth. Varitek added an RBI single and then Ellsbury unloaded for a two-run triple. Nick Green capped the damage in the game-breaking frame, roping an RBI single.

Youkilis had given the Red Sox a 3-2 lead in the fifth with an RBI single to left that scored Pedroia.

But the Nats, led by two former Red Sox, rallied against Penny in the bottom of the sixth. Josh Bard smacked a two-out single to right and Willie Harris drove him home with a double down the line in right.

The Red Sox, however, took control for the rest of the night.

For the entire game summary and to see video of the Sox' 6-run eighth inning, click here.

To see the latest game photos, click here.

"Varitek Tweaks Shoulder"

From the Boston Globe's Adam Gilgore:

NESN cameras showed trainers working on catcher Jason Varitek's shoulder between innings. After the game, Varitek had an extended conversation with trainers Mike Reinold and Paul Lessard, then went with Lessard into the training room. Dusty Brown replaced Varitek in the ninth inning, giving Brown, 27, his major league debut.

From Terry Francona's interview on the Dale & Holley Show this morning:

On Jason's playing time -

"I'm not going to apologize for wanting to play him. I mean, he's good! We're going to be a better team with him on the field. He's been a little beat up the last couple weeks and again, we'll rest him when we thinks it's necessary. But at the same time, we like him being on the field. There's a reason he has that reputation, it's well-earned. So we want him running the game for us."

Terry said not to read anything in to the Dusty Brown call-up. "We had a free roster spot with Dice-K going on the disabled list, Smoltz not being activated until tomorrow, if we got into a game and something happened to a catcher, we would be kicking ourselves. We had a free roster spot for three games."

To hear Terry's interview, click here.

In the Community...

Remember the item in the Boston Globe on Jason attending an end-of-the-year party for a neighbor's child (from my June 20th post below)? Well, there is a better article here:

From the Wicked Local (Newton) News -

What Robin Brody's first-grade class remembers about their year-end party probably won't involve pizza, cake or running through sprinklers in student Mitchell Healey's Waban backyard. His classmates' memories will most likely be of a visit from Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek.

"A few kids said it was the best day of their lives," Mitchell said of his Angier Elementary School classmates.

Mitchell's parents, Joe and Robin Healey, had invited the Sox catcher, who is also their neighbor, to the party, but had no idea if he’d make it.

"It was a total surprise for everyone," Robin said.

As the party was winding down, Varitek came out onto his deck and asked Robin how many kids were at the party. She told him "20".

A few minutes later, she said, he was back with a stacked of signed photos of him jumping into pitcher Jonathan Papelbon's arms after winning the 2007 World Series.

This is the second year the Healeys have hosted Mitchell’s end-of-the-year party, and Joe doesn’t think they can top this year’s guest.

"We had a perfect three-hour party," he said. "But the only thing the kids remembered was the last 10 minutes."

To read the entire article and to see a larger version of the photo, click here.

Okay, headin' off to Game 2 at Nationals Stadium....traffic, here I come!!

All-Star Voting Update: Tek Still In The 2-Spot

June 23, 2009

Good work! Let's keep it up!

According to MLB.com's latest update...

"Behind the plate, Joe Mauer leads Jason Varitek and Jorge Posada as he looks for his second straight All-Star Game start."

Mauer's lead is big, and Posada's gaining ground from his spot in third place, but if we can keep voting for Tek, he may still make his fourth All-Star appearance!

Vote totals so far:

1. Joe Mauer (Twins) - 2,298,544

2. Jason Varitek (Red Sox) - 1,108,054

3. Jorge Posada (Yankees) - 947,887

4. Jarrod Saltalamacchia (Rangers) - 827,063

5. Victor Martinez (Indians) - 754,571

Thank you to everyone who has been voting...and let's keep it goin'!

Cast your votes at MLB.com (just look for the 2009 All-Star Game link)!

Also Today:

"Nationals Gearing Up For Red Sox"

East Coast matchup to play out in Washington for first time

From the Washington Nationals official site:

Nationals pitcher John Lannan predicts that when the Red Sox come to Nationals Park for a three-game series beginning Tuesday, there will be an 80/20 split between the teams' fan bases.

That's 80 percent visiting Red Sox fans and 20 percent Nationals fans.

For Nationals fans, it's a mark-your-calendar-type game. All multigame ticket packages the organization sold included a game against the Red Sox.

For Red Sox fans, it's just another road trip fewer than 450 miles away to see their team play in a different ballpark.

The Red Sox swept the Nationals at Fenway Park in 2006. This will be the first meeting between the two teams since the club moved to Washington. The only current Nationals player to log action for the Nats in that 2006 series is Ryan Zimmerman, but Willie Harris and Julian Tavarez were both involved as members of the Red Sox.

"I had a good time playing there," Harris said about his brief stay in Boston. "I didn't play much, but I had a good time. It was just fun being a part of that organization, seeing the support they have -- wherever they go, they have 10,000-15,000 fans."

Harris anticipates those fans to be at Nationals Park in full force this week.

"Red Sox Nation -- they have fans across the world," he said. "This place is gonna be crazy Tuesday through Thursday. I'm looking forward to it. Our fans are going to be behind us and they're fans are gonna be behind them."

To read the entire article, click here.

*Now, according to MLB-Radio's Jeff Joyce on his "Inside Pitch" program today, the Nationals' organization released an email advising their fans that they are expecting "record crowds" and are asking people to arrive much earlier than they normally would for other Nationals games.

**On That Note: Post-game news for the site will be delayed (until the next morning) for the Nationals series since I will be attending the games, and then trying to make my way back to the Virginia suburbs afterwards!

Tek: From Player To Manager Some Day?

June 22, 2009

From MLB.com's "Around the Cage" Series Today:

Mike Scioscia was known as a tough catcher and one of the best blockers of home plate in baseball long before he won a World Series title as the manager of the Angels.

Terry Francona was an up-and-coming big league outfielder in the 1980s before he blew out his knees, but history will remember him as the skipper who brought a long-awaited championship to Boston in 2004.

And Ken Macha, now at the helm of the Milwaukee Brewers, didn't find much success playing professional baseball in America, but became a well-respected player, not to mention childhood hero of Ichiro Suzuki, in Japan.

The bottom line is that some baseball players become managers, transferring their knowledge, people skills and rekindled inner fire to a younger generation.

So who will the next crop be? Which of today's players will become tomorrow's managers? And why do former players make good skippers?

These were the latest Around The Cage questions posed by MLB.com's beat reporters to a host of hardball luminaries in the clubhouses, offices and broadcast booths of the Major Leagues.

Popular choices among current big league players for future managerial success include Mets infielder Alex Cora and a trio of catchers: Jason Varitek of the Red Sox, Brewers backstop Jason Kendall and Dodgers veteran Brad Ausmus.

MLB.com's Doug Miller gives a sample size of comments from those in the game:

Jason Bay, LF, Red Sox: "If you ask anyone, they're going to say Jason Varitek. The old saying is that a lot of the old catchers make good managers, because they manage the game when they're playing. Based on what he knows and all the studying he does, I think it's a natural fit."

Joe Kerrigan, pitching coach, Pirates: "One name that comes off the top of my mind is Jason Varitek. I think a lot of people would agree with that today. He's got the personality to deal with this generation's personality. He's got knowledge of the game and he's got the understanding of how to deal with people. I think that guy would be a lot of people's choices if you asked a player today who would qualify, maybe five, 10 years down the line as a manager. Varitek would probably be on most people's lists."

To read the entire article, click here.

Tek, Wake & Big Papi In The House!

June 21, 2009 - Happy Father's Day!

Jason, Tim Wakefield and David Ortiz sat down with MLB.com and shared their thoughts about the passion of the Sox fans after Fenway's 500th straight sellout this past week. The three are the only remaining members of the team from the beginning of the sellout that started on May 15, 2003.

It turned into a loose, funny interview between the three when Big Papi was asked about the song "Sweet Caroline".

To watch the video, click here.

NESN will air the interview on their July Red Sox Report.

*Thank you to Barbara for sending me the link!

Tek's Father's Day gear:

Although he'll only be catching in the bullpen today, Jason will wear special Father's Day gear which will be auctioned off at MLB.com with proceeds going to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

The catcher's gear, made by All-Star, has light blue accents on red with the word "DAD" embroidered in red on the blue-accented neckline of the chest protector, rather than his traditional "Tek".

To see a larger version of the screen capture, click here.

Also Today:

From an article in the Boston Herald this morning:

The last time Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek encountered Derek Lowe’s sinker they were batterymates in Game 4 of the 2004 World Series.

Until last night, when Varitek produced a pair of doubles to left-center field and scored twice while hitting against Lowe in the Red Sox’ 3-0 win over Atlanta at Fenway Park.

Lowe went 6 innings and gave up three runs on seven hits in his debut as a visiting player at Fenway.

Lowe and Varitek arrived together on the Red Sox from Seattle on July 31, 1997, in a trade for Heathcliff Slocumb, and their names were linked for the next eight years.

"I’ve seen Derek throw for so long and he's a good friend," said Varitek, who went 2-for-3 on the night against Lowe.

"I’ve played with him for too long to not see how he was doing elsewhere. I had a ball fall in and I was able to get enough on the other breaking ball to get down through it a little bit."

Lowe's sinker stymied the Red Sox through four innings and produced 10 groundouts before Varitek stepped in with two outs in the fifth. Varitek drove the ball high off the Green Monster. After Varitek advanced on a wild pitch, shortstop Nick Green swatted a Lowe sinker off The Wall to produce the only run Red Sox starter Josh Beckett would need.

Lowe exited the field to a huge ovation from the Red Sox fans and he acknowledged their outpouring with a tip of the cap.

"It was a great thing to see," said Varitek. "It's been so long since he's had a chance to be back here.

"As long as he was here, I'm sure he really appreciated that. I know it was really nice to see."

Varitek's primary function is to handle the Red Sox' pitching staff and he guided Beckett to the third complete-game shutout of his career. Beckett threw an efficient 94 pitches, 67 for strikes and yielded five scattered hits with seven strikeouts.

"It was a mix with good quality location with his fastball, change, the sinker and four-seamer," said Varitek. "He works off that. They were aggressive and put some balls in play earlier in the count and that's big for a power pitcher like Josh."

To read the entire article, click here.

And:

Check out this excellent article on Tek entitled, "Old Reliable" from the Eagle Tribune's Alan Siegel this morning:

From the article...

The Stay Puft Marshmallow Man resides in a quiet corner of the Red Sox clubhouse.

You know him better as Jason Varitek, Boston's inimitable starting catcher. After every game, he emerges from the training room sporting bulging ice packs that make him look, well, like the 200-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man in "Ghostbusters."

"If you watch catchers, for the most part, they're tougher than the other guys," said four-time All-Star catcher Bob Boone, the Washington Nationals' vice president of player development and a Varitek admirer. "If a backswing hits you in the head, you keep playing. That comes with the territory."

Varitek has taken charge since his days as a three-time All-American at Georgia Tech. The 1994 National College Player of the Year, whose No. 33 was retired by the Yellow Jackets, spent his senior season dispelling the myth that an amateur catcher's responsibilities were limited to blocking balls in the dirt and throwing out runners.

"I might've called five pitches total the whole year," said head baseball coach Danny Hall, whose first year at Tech was Tek's last.

"He got more out of that pitching staff," Hall said of Varitek, "than anybody could get out of them."

Hall guessed that without Varitek in '94, the Yellow Jackets would've had 10 fewer wins.

Aside from injuries that derailed his 2001 (elbow) and 2006 seasons (knee), Varitek has stayed healthy enough to carry on.

Hall last saw Varitek at the catcher's home. It was shortly before spring training and, Hall said, "he was in the best shape of his life."

I'm ready to go," Varitek told Hall that day.

Having an abundance of young, live arms - like Boston does - is important. But Varitek's work isn't taken lightly. When Masterson got called up to the Sox last season, the catcher was there to help ease the transition.

Masterson said, "The first thing he said to me is, 'Hey, don't be afraid to shake (me off). If you don't want that pitch, then tell me you don't want that pitch, because I want you to throw what you want to throw.'"

If Masterson's in a bad mood, Varitek will head to the mound and make the pitcher laugh.

"Other guys, he might get up in their face," Masterson said. "It's amazing. Every pitcher is their own individual type of person. He does a great job understanding that they're all different."

"Catching five or six days a week," Hall said, "that's just a tremendous amount of punishment on your body."

That would explain all the ice packs.

Again, you can check out the entire article here, definitely worth a read!

Tek Stat:

Jason logged his 280th and 281st doubles, passing Nomar Garciaparra (279) for sole possession of eighth place on the Red Sox all-time list.

Check out the post below for more game info from last night.

Tek Is 2-3 With 2 Runs Scored In Beckett's 1st Sox Shutout

June 20, 2009 - Game Update

Josh Beckett allowed just five singles for his first shutout since joining the Red Sox, and Jason Varitek doubled twice (15 doubles on the season) and scored twice to lead Boston to a 3-0 victory over the Atlanta Braves tonight.

Beckett struck out seven, walked none and allowed only one runner to reach second base to win for the sixth time in seven decisions.

Jason helped Boston spoil the homecoming of ex-batterymate Derek Lowe, who spent 7-1/2 seasons with the Red Sox and helped them end their 86-year World Series drought.

In his first appearance at Fenway since the 2004 AL championship series — and his first-ever game against the Red Sox — Lowe (7-5) allowed three runs on seven hits, walking one and striking out two.

Lowe and Beckett were locked in a scoreless game until the fifth, when Jason doubled off center fielder Nate McLouth's glove and scored on Nick Green's double. J.D. Drew doubled to lead off the sixth and scored on Kevin Youkilis' single to make it 2-0.

Boston scored another in the seventh just before chasing Lowe from the game, but not before the Fenway crowd gave him a standing ovation as he walked to the visitor's dugout where he waved his cap in appreciation. Jason doubled again, Nick Green singled, and Pedroia beats out a double-play ball and scored Jason on a fielder's choice.

For those who don't remember, Derek Lowe came to the Red Sox with Jason in 1997 in a lopsided trade for closer Heathcliff Slocumb, and together they became the core of the team that would lead the franchise to the '04 World Series title.

Jason spoke with NESN's Heidi Watney on the field after the game:

Q: "A good night at the plate for you - what was it like facing Derek Lowe, a guy you caught for so many years?"

Jason: "It's not particularly fun (smiles), I was just lucky to get some good parts of the bat on the ball tonight."

Q: "Do you kind of feel like you knew what was coming because you had worked with him for so long?"

Jason: "No, I think it's the opposite. I think you get mind-logged, especially having not caught him for so long. He's changed a lot since he's been here, he's more slider than curveball. But it was a good reception for him though!"

To watch the video, click here.

To see photos and screen captures from the game, click here.

Derek Lowe Returns to Fenway...

June 20, 2009

From Derek Lowe's blog:

There probably isn't a better way to enter this blogging world than talking about the memories I have from that historical run I shared with the Red Sox had on the way to the 2004 World Series title Here we are five years later and when I go back with the Braves for this weekend's series at Fenway, it will be the first time I've been in Boston since I came back to get my championship ring in 2005.

I'm really looking forward to heading back to Boston to pitch this weekend. When I think of my career pretty much all my memories are in Boston.

When I tell people that the 2003 and 2004 Red Sox teams were the funnest that I've ever been a part of, they just say, "yeah, that's because you were winning."

But it was because we all had a chance to be together for a long time and that's something you don't see too often in this game any more. Plus it was also the most laid-back, check-your-ego-at-the-door team that I've ever seen.

To read his complete blog, click here.

And from an interview in the Boston Globe:

Aside from testing out the temporary new digs, he's spending his time trying to get back in touch with Jason Varitek and Tim Wakefield, his two closest friends left from the 2004 championship team.

"You do as much as you can seeing people," he said. "I texted both of them throughout the season. It's hard to keep in touch during the season -- you can't go out to dinner with them or anything -- but it's good to catch up.

"Coming in here, you kind of get these old vibes that are fresh in your mind. We had a lot of good memories here, and I have a lot of fond memories of the players," he said. "It's a great place to play, too."

To read the complete interview, click here.

We already know his thoughts on his former catcher:

"I was fortunate to, in my opinion, play with the best catcher in all of baseball, especially calling a game in Varitek. And I went years, not starts, but years in Boston and never shook that off, because I had that much faith in his game calling.

"And I think Russell is eventually going to get there. You can't expect him to be at Jason's level this early in his career." -- L.A. Dodgers pitcher Derek Lowe, during a pre-game interview when asked about catcher Russell Martin (first posted on October 13, 2008).

Also Today:

Tek takes time to party!

From the Boston Globe -

First-graders in Robin Brody’s class at the Angier School in Newton welcomed a special guest to their end-of-the-year party Wednesday: Jason Varitek.

Robin Healey and husband Joe, who are Tek's neighbors, invited the Sox captain to their son Mitchell's party and were delighted when he actually showed up and even brought autographed photos for the youngsters. "At the moment, he’s king of the first grade," Joe Healey said of his son.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"He's been a valuable part of our staff - period. As a starter, reliever, short guy and long guy and he's able to do a lot of different things...He has abilities and that's the big thing - he has the ability to throw strikes with a couple of different pitches, so that's huge. He'll continue to gain more experience. He's getting a feel for himself still. He's doing a good job at it." -- Jason during a post-game interview last night, on Justin Masterson's performance this season.

Okay, Okay, Okay...

I have finally buckled under the pressure and am now on Facebook!

Although unofficial fan pages are not permitted, you can find my personal page (with a mention or two about the site, of course!). If you are member, stop by and ask to be added. I would love to hear from you!

You can find me here.

If the link doesn't work, you can simply type in the email address: erin@jason-varitek.com

Thursday: Notes & Quotes

June 18, 2009

It's not too late...

...to bid on Jason's Mother's Day gear at MLB.com's auction site!

The auction doesn't end until midnight on June 30th, and the high bid is $1,300 right now. The game-worn set include his mask, shin guards and chest protector made by All-Star.

Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation.

And coming up this weekend, I should have a "sneak peak" posted of Jason's Father's Day gear. So make sure to check back!

...to purchase tickets for Jason's Putt-Putt Tournament!

The Tournament is scheduled for July 2nd at Ferncroft Country Club in Middleton, Massachusetts.

Spectator tickets are just $23.00 per person.

Money raised from the event will benefit the Saints Medical Center and the Celebrities for Charity Foundation.

To purchase your spectator tickets, click here.

...to purchase tickets for the "V-Tek Sox vs. Yankees" Raffle!

Enjoy a RED SOX vs. YANKEES Game with three of your closest friends!

Grand Prize:

- Winner will receive 4 Premium Tickets to the August 22, 2009 Sox vs. Yankees game at Fenway Park (Game Time 4:10 PM)

- Winner and 3 guests will enjoy a pregame tour of Fenway Park

- Winner will receive a $100.00 gift certificate to Tresca Restaurant (located in Boston' historic North End)

- Winner will receive an autographed 8 x 10 photo of Jason

Tickets start at just $2.00 each and decrease for orders of more than 5 tickets.

Entry Deadline: 11:00 AM EDT, August 20, 2009

Help Jason and the Celebrities for Charity Foundation in their efforts to provide support to local charities and, in return, you could be enjoy an incredible experience at Fenway this summer!

The CFC Foundation is utilizing NetRaffle to conduct this raffle and tickets are only available online at their web site.

For more info, check out their Charity Raffles page here.

Tek-nically Speaking...

"I think that communication with the manager and coaches has been good. They come and talk to me and ask me 'How do you feel today?'. Captain Tek invites me to dinner and we have a great time once in awhile." -- Hideki Okajima, in an interview in the latest issue of Red Sox magazine.

"I'll probably have two good side sessions to fine-tune some stuff, and then I'm going to rely on the catchers they've got up there. I've been excited to throw to [Jason Varitek] for a long time, since spring training." -- John Smoltz, in an interview with NESN this week.

"Jason Varitek is done. He’s old. He’s in decline. He’s certainly not worth $5 million a year. The Red Sox should move on and trade whatever they have to and get a young catcher who will hold up for the future. I’m sure I’ve said at least a couple of those things. And I was wrong." -- Jeff Howe, columnist for the Metro International.

The...ahem...Quote of the Week winner:

"Today in the locker room I asked Varitek how he likes our cup and jock. He pulled up his shirt tails to show me he had it on. Priceless." -- Stan Jurga, Jr., owner of All-Star Sports on the company's Twitter entry.

And from an article in USA Today on the Baltimore Orioles' Matt Wieters -

In terms of pedigree, Wieters is similar to Varitek. Both are switch-hitters who played at Georgia Tech. Both became first-round draft choices, clients of agent Scott Boras and immersed in the intensity of the American League East.

As much as he grew up admiring the Georgia Tech teams with Varitek, Nomar Garciaparra and Jay Payton, Wieters has yet to have the chance to have a conversation with Varitek.

"It would be something nice to do some time," Wieters says. "The way he can control a team and control a pitching staff is something special."

If Wieters can have the kind of career Varitek has enjoyed in Boston — playing a dozen years as a regular behind the plate, establishing unquestioned levels of respect with his pitching staff, making three All-Star teams — he would be a huge success.

To read the entire article, click here.

Also Today:

Check out any photos you may have missed this week in the Gallery. I have added a few of Kelly O'Connor's latest, some from the last couple of games and from the Pitching in For Kids Tournament.

To see them all in one place, click here.

"A Great Day For Playing Golf And Raising Money"

June 16, 2009 - Afternoon Update (see below)

From the Boston Globe's "Celebrity" section this morning:

...At Indian Pond Country Club in Kingston, Sox teammates Tim Wakefield and Jason Varitek hosted their annual golf game benefiting the Pitching in for Kids Foundation.

Others knocking it around included John Smoltz (wearing a visor with a wig attached), Luis Tiant, Jim Lonborg, Hall of Famer Jim Rice, Lou Merloni, and Bob Montgomery. Sox utility man Nick Green also stopped by, and Wake's 5-year-old son, Trevor, surprised folks by throwing a pretty fair knuckleball of his own.

To read the rest of the column, click here.

To check out the Pitching in for Kids album, click here.

Also Today:

All-Star Game Voting Update

Tek overtakes Saltalamacchia for second...

From MLB.com this afternoon:

Behind the plate, Joe Mauer continues to lead the way but there was some movement behind the two-time All-Star. The Rangers' Jarrod Saltalamacchia fell two spots to fourth place, allowing Varitek to move into second and Posada into third.

1. Joe Mauer (Twins) - 1,656,595

2. Jason Varitek (Red Sox) - 800,095

3. Jorge Posada (Yankees) - 716,361

4. Jarrod Saltalamacchia (Rangers) - 695,438

5. Victor Martinez (Indians) - 634,860

Thank you to everyone who has been voting...and let's keep it up!

Cast your votes at MLB.com (just look for the 2009 All-Star link)!

And:

When you get a moment, check out the new blog, Educated Cheese and especially, the "Jason Varitek Quad-er-sizer" entry!

Tek Stats:

Jason now has 279 career doubles, tying him with Nomar Garciaparra for 8th place on the Red Sox' All-Time list.

*Thanks Adriane and Tim!

Sox Win 11-6 In Rain-Delayed Game Against Phillies

June 14, 2009

From the Phillies perspective...

Article in the Delware County (PA) Daily Times by sportswriter Ryan Lawrence:

The unfortunate result of a lengthy rain delay that begins early in a game — other than sitting in a wet set for another few hours if you’re a fan — is trying to find enough pitching to get you through nine innings.

Losing the starting pitcher after one inning, as the Phillies did Saturday night against the Red Sox, means you need at least a couple of arms to step in and devour the starter’s workload.

The Phillies found their man in Chad Durbin, who, despite working in three of the previous four games, fired three shutout innings of relief against the Sox.

But it takes more than one pitcher to fill the gap, and when Jack Taschner reared his left arm into the game in relief of Durbin, a game that began ugly reverted back to unpleasant form.

After the Phillies rallied back to come one run from erasing an early five-run deficit, Taschner imploded in the Red Sox’s 11-6 victory in a game that ended over five hours after it began.

Play was delayed for 95 minutes after ominous clouds turned to heavy rain following the first inning.

The Phillies were in a 5-0 hole from the start.

The Red Sox collected three walks off Phils rookie starter Antonio Bastardo, took advantage of three errors from the home team and watched Jason Bay hit a booming two-run home run in the Citizens Bank Park-silencing first inning.

After Durbin allowed one hit and racked up 56 pitches in three innings of relief, Taschner trotted to the mound to begin the fifth and gave up base hits to the first two hitters. With one out, Jason Varitek (hitting his 13th double of the season) and Julio Lugo put together back-to-back, run-scoring hits to give the Sox a 7-4 lead.

The Phillies had just two runners reach base in the final four innings. Werth rounded the bases with his ninth home run of the year with two outs in the seventh inning.

The other hit came in the ninth, when Utley’s one-out single was all the Phils could muster off All-Star closer Jonathan Papelbon.

To read Mr. Lawrence's column, click here.

To see Jason's post-game interview, click here.

Also From Saturday:

Jason called in to "The Baseball Show" on Comcast Sports Net yesterday. WEEI also carried the show. He fielded questions from Lou Merloni, Sean McAdam, Michael Felger and Steve Buckley.

He discussed Friday's game, John Lester, Daniel Bard, Josh Beckett and his backup, George Kottaras, "Georgie and I have gotten along from the get go...he's become a good friend."

To hear his interview, click here.

To see a larger version of Kelly O'Connor's photo above, click here.

And Today:

From MLB.com: Varitek out of the lineup for Sunday afternoon game -

The Red Sox tried to put the finishing touches on a three-game sweep against the Phillies on Sunday with a lineup you can be sure manager Terry Francona won't duplicate again this season.

Four prominent hitters -- Dustin Pedroia, David Ortiz, J.D. Drew and Jason Varitek -- started the game on the bench.

For Varitek, it was just a breather for the catcher he played 13 innings Friday and another long game Saturday that included a 95-minute rain delay. Varitek never wants to be out of the lineup, but Francona made the choice for him.

Because the Red Sox are off Monday and knuckleballer Tim Wakefield is pitching Tuesday, Varitek will actually get three days off in a row.

"I didn't think it was in Tek's best interest, I didn't think we could do it," Francona said. "I know Wake's pitching on Tuesday -- it's not the way we like to draw it up. I wouldn't feel good about running him out there. I don't think that makes any sense at all."

To read the entire article, click here.

Sox Win It In 13!

June 13, 2009

Final Score: Red Sox 5, Phillies 2

From the Boston Herald's Steve Buckley this morning:

When a group of reporters approached Jason Varitek late last night and asked about the performance of Sox starter Jon Lester, the veteran catcher smiled and said, "Did he pitch today? When was that?".

It certainly seemed that way. Though Lester threw seven brilliant innings against the Philadelphia Phillies last night at Citizens Bank Park, he was long gone by the time the Red Sox emerged with a 13-inning, 5-2 victory.

Lester allowed just one run in those seven innings, and he retired 18 of the final 19 batters he faced. And with 11 strikeouts, Lester became the first Red Sox pitcher since Pedro Martinez in 2004 to register 10 or more strikeouts in at least three consecutive starts. And he’s the first left-hander in the history of the franchise to do it.

Not bad for a guy who couldn’t find his curveball for the first couple of innings.

"Early on, I was coming out of my delivery a little bit, and I wasn’t able to throw my curveball for a strike, or curveballs in general, really," said Lester. "I was a little quick, trying to do too much, too early."

What the lefty needed was some Tek-nical support.

"Stay back and let your arm do the work," Varitek told Lester.

Said Lester after the game, "It sounds easy, it sounds dumb, but it's all about executing pitches . . . I wasn't doing that at the beginning of the game."

After allowing a run in the second, Lester did not yield another hit over his last five innings. He struck out the side in the fourth and fifth innings, all swinging. He left with a 2-1 lead, but wound up with a no-decision when the Phillies tied it in the ninth on Ryan Howard’s homer off Ramon Ramirez.

In his last three starts, Lester has lowered his ERA from 6.07 to 4.76.

To read Mr. Buckley's entire column, click here.

From the Boston Globe's Adam Gilgore:

No one in baseball, perhaps, has executed them like Lester the past two starts. In 16 innings, he has allowed four hits and struck out 22. Last night, he hit one rough stretch.

In the second, Raul Ibanez singled and Shane Victorino doubled him to third. Jason Varitek pointed out that "I was coming out of my delivery," Lester said. He was trying to throw perfect pitches but by rushing his motion was losing control of his curveball. Ibanez scored on a ground out, but that was it for the Phillies.

To read Mr. Kilgore's entire column, click here.

To see photos from the game, click here.

Another Reminder:

I posted this yesterday afternoon, but just in case you missed it...

From Comcast Sports Net yesterday -

Jason is scheduled to call in on today's "The Baseball Show".

Catch Lou Merloni, Sean McAdam, Michael Felger and Steve Buckley as they get the chance to chat with The Captain. "The Baseball Show" airs on CSN New England from 9 AM until Noon every Saturday and is also simulcast on WEEI.

Reminder: Jason Varitek Celebrity Putt Putt Tournament

June 11, 2009

There is still time to purchase your tickets to attend...

The Tournament is scheduled for July 2nd at Ferncroft Country Club in Middleton, Massachusetts.

Jason, his teammates and many other Boston celebrities come together for a game of putt-putt to raise money for the Saints Medical Center and the Celebrities for Charity Foundation.

You can watch or participate!

Spectator tickets are just $23.00 per person.

Sponsorships for the Media and Foursomes start at $5,000, World Series and "Tek" sponsorships at $15,000, and a special "Presenting" sponsorship is available for $35,000.

For more information or to purchase your spectator tickets, click here.

For screen caps from Jason's commercial spot for last year's Tournament, click here.

For screen caps from NESN's "Celebrity Spotlight" show featuring last year's event here.

For photos from past Tournaments here.

And Don't Forget The Raffle...

To purchase tickets for the "V-Tek Sox vs. Yankees" Raffle!

Enjoy a RED SOX vs. YANKEES Game with three of your closest friends!

Grand Prize:

- Winner will receive 4 Premium Tickets to the August 22, 2009 Sox vs. Yankees game at Fenway Park (Game Time 4:10 PM)

- Winner and 3 guests will enjoy a pregame tour of Fenway Park

- Winner will receive a $100.00 gift certificate to Tresca Restaurant (located in Boston' historic North End)

- Winner will receive an autographed 8 x 10 photo of Jason

Help Jason and the Celebrities for Charity Foundation in their efforts to provide support to local charities and, in return, you could be enjoy an incredible experience at Fenway this summer!

Tickets start at just $2.00 each and decrease for orders of more than 5 tickets.

Entry Deadline: 11:00 AM EDT, August 20, 2009

The CFC Foundation is utilizing NetRaffle to conduct this raffle and tickets are only available online at their web site.

For more info, check out their Charity Raffles page here.

Also:

Red Sox Sweep Yankees...again!

"He's a big, strong donkey. He seems to get stronger as the games go on." -- Jason Varitek on Brad Penny, during his post-game interview.

Brad Penny pitched six quality innings leaving with a 1-0 lead last night.

In the seventh, Manny Delcarmen got into trouble quickly. Melky Cabrera led the inning off with a single and Francisco Cervelli made it count, smacking a double to left field to score Cabrera and tie the game. Cervelli and Johnny Damon (on with a walk) scored when Alex Rodriguez ripped a double to left-center, ending Manny Delcarmen's night. Takashi Saito took the ball from Delcarmen and got Robinson Cano to sky out to deep left.

Down two runs to start the 8th inning, the Sox strung together four singles and a walk as a part of a four-run, no-out rally.

Papelbon came on in the ninth and took care of business, thanks to an incredible play by Nick Green. In what seemed like one fluid motion, Green snagged a ball up the middle, spun around and threw to first to take a leadoff hit away from Derek Jeter. Then after Johnny Damon flew out, Mark Teixeira shot a liner that Kevin Youkilis snared at first to secure the comeback win.

Final Score: Red Sox 4, Yankees 3

The Sox take a two-game lead in the A.L. East with this win.

The Yankees are now 0-8 against the Sox this season!

The Sox head to Philadelphia for the start of inter-league play this month. They will also play the Marlins, the Braves, and the Nationals.

"Philly has been a good club for years," said Jason Varitek. "You can't replicate the media and fan attention given to Yankees-Red Sox, but our preparation will be just the same. We have to plan for Raul, (Ryan) Howard and Chase (Utley) the same way as we do (Derek) Jeter, (Alex) Rodriguez, and (Robinson) Cano."

To read about Terry Francona's return to Philly, click here.

For game photos, click here.

And:

From Comcast Sports Net this afternoon -

Jason is scheduled to call in on Saturday’s "The Baseball Show".

Catch Lou Merloni, Sean McAdam, Michael Felger and Steve Buckley as they get the chance to chat with The Captain. "The Baseball Show" airs on CSN New England from 9 AM until Noon every Saturday and is also simulcast on WEEI.

Saltalamacchia Moves Into 2nd Place In All-Star Voting

June 9, 2009 - All-Star Game Voting Update

Are you voting out there?

Saltalamacchia's current stats: AVG .245 | HR 5 | RBI 24 | OBP .298 | SLG .387

Jason's current stats: AVG .247 | HR 10 | RBI 24 | OBP .337 | SLG .519

From MLB.com this afternoon:

The Rangers' Jarrod Saltalamacchia moved 318 votes ahead of Boston's Jason Varitek for second place at catcher. The Indians' Victor Martinez also dropped down a spot, to fifth, as Jorge Posada of the Yankees jumped from No. 5 to No. 4.

1. Joe Mauer (Twins) - 1,255,206

2. Jarrod Saltalamacchia (Rangers) - 583,033

3. Jason Varitek (Red Sox) - 582,715

4. Jorge Posada (Yankees) - 569,714

5. Victor Martinez (Indians) - 535,575

Let's send the Red Sox captain back to the All-Star game!

Cast your votes at MLB.com (just look for the 2009 All-Star link)!

Sox Blank Yankees 7-0 in Game 1 of Series at Fenway

Tonight's Game:

Josh Beckett allowed only an infield hit in six innings, and David Ortiz hit his third homer of the year to lead the Boston Red Sox to a 7-0 victory over the New York Yankees on Tuesday night.

The Red Sox improved to 6-0 against the Yankees franchise for the first time since 1912, when they beat the Highlanders in 14 straight - including the first-ever game in Fenway Park.

Beckett (7-2) struck out eight and walked two before leaving with a 6-0 lead after six innings, having thrown 93 pitches. The only hit he allowed was Robinson Cano's fourth-inning grounder to the left of second baseman Dustin Pedroia, who dove to come up with the ball but couldn't make the throw that had little chance of getting the batter anyway. It was ruled a base hit by official scorer Mike Shalin.

Beckett struck out Jorge Posada to end the inning, then retired the last six batters he faced, fanning three of them, for his third consecutive victory. In all, only three batters hit the ball out of the infield against him.

A.J. Burnett (4-3) allowed three earned runs on five walks - one to Jason Varitek, who then scored on Nick Green's RBI double, and five hits before leaving with two outs in the third and taking out his frustrations on a dugout watercooler. He gave up Ortiz's two-run shot to straightaway center field in Boston's four-run second, when Alex Rodriguez double-clutched on a grounder for an error and gave Boston an extra out.

Photos and screen caps from the game can be seen here.

Photos & Screen Captures Added...

June 9, 2009 - Evening Update (more captures added)

"I am glad it's worked out this way. There was some uncertainty last off-season but I, for one, am glad to see Jason Varitek wearing that uniform with pride and distinction again." -- Red Sox President and CEO Larry Lucchino during an interview that took place at the event.

Tim Wakefield, Jason Varitek, and several of their Sox teammates used their off day to raise serious dough for the Pitching in for Kids Foundation, which benefits hospitalized children and their families in New England. The gang gathered last night for a hand or two of high-stakes poker at Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

"It's important to give back to the community that supports us everyday," Wakefield said. "And we threw a little extra twist in there this year. Play a little poker, have a bunch of guys play because I know we like to do it in the clubhouse and on the plane."

The live auction raised close to $20,000.

To see photos and screen captures, click here.

To see a short video from the event, check out NESN's site here.

Also:

The 6th Annual Pitching In For Kids All Star Charity Golf Classic, hosted by Jason and Tim Wakefield is scheduled to take place on Monday, June 15, 2009.

It will be played on a new golf course this year - the Indian Pond Country Club in Kingston, MA. Registration begins at Noon and the Shotgun Start at 1:00 p.m.

For more information on this event, check out PIFK's website here.

Event Reminder...

June 7, 2009

All Star Charity Golf Classic Pre-Tournament Party at Ned Devines -

Tomorrow evening at the Upper Rotunda of Faneuil Hall Marketplace!

Join Jason, Tim & their friends for a night of fun with a silent & live auction, music & dancing, local restaurant tastings, and a cocktail reception.

You can also participate in Celebrity Poker - each poker table will consist of 7 players and 1 celebrity.

Tickets for the event are still available, click here to purchase!

To see photos from past Pre-Tournament Parties, click here.

Also:

Don't forget to check out a few photos of Jason from this afternoon's game!

Click here.

Lester & Tek Flirt With No-Hitter In Win Against Rangers

June 7, 2009

"Another part of it is having that guy behind the plate. He studies his [butt] off every day, whether we're playing the same team or a different team coming into town, or if we're going there. He knows this pitching staff and he knows guys' strengths. He hasn't caught four no-hitters for no particular reason. No matter what's going on, he's always putting positive things in our heads."-- Jon Lester talks about Jason Varitek during his post-game interview.

The one-year anniversary of the no-hitter Jon Lester threw against the Kansas City Royals occurred nearly three weeks ago.

On Saturday night, the Red Sox left-hander made a bid to top the memorable performance that he turned in on May 19, 2008.

For 6-1/3 innings, the 25-year-old Lester was perfect against the Texas Rangers, needing only 64 pitches to set down the first 19 hitters he faced with 10 strikeouts.

The crowd of 37,828 at Fenway Park was hanging on Lester’s every pitch, and he was in such control that another special outing seemed in the cards.

Then, Rangers shortstop Michael Young, who has exceeded 200 hits five times in his career, stepped up to the plate with one out in the top of the seventh inning and ended that possibility.

Young hit Lester’s first offering for a double to center field, spoiling the perfect game and no-hitter with one swing of the bat.

Lester asked catcher Jason Varitek after the game where the pitch was.

"Tek said it was a good pitch," Lester added. "Young is a good fastball hitter, and I was trying to get ahead in the count."

Lester bounced back from that and went the distance for the third time in his career, pitching a two-hitter and earning an 8-1 win over the Rangers, striking out 11 along the way.

"The guy had good stuff and he was in the strike zone with it," Rangers manager Ron Washington said. "He made us swing the bat."

Lester, who walked only two, turned in his second straight strong game, striking out 12 and allowing a run and three hits against the Toronto Blue Jays last Sunday. It marks the first time this season Lester (5-5) has won consecutive starts, and it comes after he went through some inconsistent stretches earlier in the season.

The Red Sox gave Lester, who has three double-digit strikeout games, plenty of offensive support against Texas rookie starter Derek Holland and reliever Kris Benson.

"I was able to throw strikes with a lot of different pitches tonight and command both sides of the plate, which helps. Tek did a great job of honing that and making sure that I didn't get ahead of myself and try to think two and three pitches ahead."

Jason Varitek was asked about the difference between Lester's performance last night and his no-hitter last year, "I think it was stronger from the get-go. When he got the no-hitter, he had some ground outs, but was battling through the whole game."

Mike Lowell gave the Red Sox a 1-0 lead in the second inning, lining a home run that was changed from a double after an instant replay review by the umpires. Lowell’s ninth homer just made it over the top of the line at the Green Monster seats and bounced back onto the field.

The Red Sox made it 4-0 in the fifth when Dustin Pedroia delivered an RBI single as Varitek (who singled in the first) scored in a close play at the plate, and Jason Bay drove in a pair with a two-out single to left.

Benson allowed four runs in the sixth, beginning with David Ortiz’s second homer of the season, a liner down the line in right field.

To see a video of Jason's post-game interview, click here.

To see photos from the game. click here.

Jason's current stats: AVG .250 | HR 10 | RBI 24 | OBP .337 | SLG .526

Beckett & Tek Flirt With No-Hitter In Win Against Tigers

June 3, 2009

"Tek did a great job, we were really in tune today."-- Josh Beckett during his post-game interview.

From Ian Browne at RedSox.com tonight:

The Tigers were going down one after another, and doing it quietly. The way Red Sox ace Josh Beckett was going -- backed by a pinpoint fastball, a perplexing curve and a solid changeup -- a no-hitter was not out of the question on Wednesday night at Comerica Park.

But amid an otherwise brilliant performance by the Boston right-hander in a 10-5 victory, that bid ended on a clean single to right by Curtis Granderson with two outs in the bottom of the seventh inning.

With the count 2-1, Granderson thumped a 94-mph fastball through the hole on the right side and easily into right field for a hit.

Though Beckett didn't come quite as close as Tim Wakefield on April 15 at Oakland (7 1/3 innings), it was a standout performance. The Red Sox have been no strangers to no-hitters in recent years, as Clay Buchholz fired one in 2007 and Jon Lester notched one last year.

Once the no-hitter ended, the Red Sox broke the game open, notching a six-spot in the eighth, fueled by two-run doubles by David Ortiz and Jason Varitek (his 11th of the season).

Beckett allowed three unearned runs on two hits and two walks while striking out nine over 7 2/3 innings.

To read Mr. Browne's complete recap, click here.

And from Daniel Barbarisi at the Providence Journal:

After six innings, it seemed like [Beckett] might have a chance at something truly special: a no hitter, another figurative trophy for the mantle of a pitcher who already has two World Series trophies and a 20-win season under his belt at age 29.

The seventh started off well enough, with Placido Polanco flying out to left. But Magglio Ordonez worked a crucial walk against Beckett, coming back from a 1-and-2 count to reach first base.

The next batter, Miguel Cabrera, jacked a hard fly ball that carried to the warning track in right centerfield, but Jacoby Ellsbury tracked it down on the run, to a mixture of cheers and 'oohs' from the Comerica Park crowd.

It seemed Beckett had gotten one of 'those plays' that seem to come with every no hitter -- but any good karma was short lived.

Curtis Granderson came to the plate, a man who makes his living slashing doubles and hard singles. On a 2-1 fastball, Granderson laced a single past a leaping Dustin Pedroia to end the no hitter.

Beckett took a moment to compose himself, talked to catcher Jason Varitek, and recorded the third out of the inning.

Boston pitchers have thrown four no-hitters since 2001, all caught by Jason Varitek. Hideo Nomo, Derek Lowe, Clay Buchholz and Jon Lester have all turned in clean sheets. Buchholz threw his in 2007, Lester in 2008.

To read Mr. Barbarisi's complete recap, click here.

And:

To see video of Jason's post-game interview on NESN (above), click here.

For the latest game photos, click here.

Tek-nically Speaking:

"He's always been the same. He's gotten some huge hits for us - there's no getting around that! He's gotten the barrel to the bat way more consistently. But his catching has never changed one bit. His helping us offensively has been huge. He's always been the same, he'll never change! Every once in awhile he'll crack that smile, jab at ya, but for the most part he gets so into the game, that until that game is over...he exhausts himself trying to catch a win. And you know what, I don't want to get in the way of that. So, again, sometimes the game is not the best time to talk to him because he is so wrapped up into what's he's doing." -- Terry Francona on WEEI today talks about his catcher.

Red Sox All-Time List: Jason Varitek now has 277 career doubles, moving him past Mike Greenwell (275) into sole possession of 9th place on the Red Sox' all-time list (8th: Nomar Garciparra, 279).

*Thank you to Tim!

Jason's current stats: AVG .248 | HR 10 | RBI 24 | OBP .335 | SLG .531

Tek Takes Second In All-Star Voting For AL Catchers...

June 2, 2009

The Red Sox Captain overtakes the Indians' Victor Martinez in this week's voting update -

From MLB.com this afternoon:

Joe Mauer (769,320), the Minnesota Twins catcher, is again leading on the field and in the ballot box. In 28 games, Mauer is hitting .414 with 11 home runs and 32 RBIs. In his first full season behind the plate, Rangers catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia (401,375) ranks behind Mauer and Boston captain Jason Varitek (406,788). Cleveland's Victor Martinez (396,708) and New York's Jorge Posada (393,431) rank fourth and fifth, respectively, in this impressive list of AL backstops.

Other Red Sox players:

At first base, Boston's Kevin Youkilis (600,175) remains on top, but the Yankees' Mark Teixeira (506,339), who hit .330 last month after a slow start in New York, jumped past Detroit's Miguel Cabrera (444,492) this week for the second spot. Behind Teixeira is Minnesota's Justin Morneau (483,226), Cabrera and Texas rookie Chris Davis (320,912).

At second base, Rangers slugger Ian Kinsler (787,619) leads former Arizona State teammate and Red Sox star Dustin Pedroia (641,281), the Yankees' Robinson Cano (413,605), Toronto's Aaron Hill (388,457) and Detroit's Placido Polanco (277,033).

The AL East is well represented at third base. Tampa Bay's Evan Longora (1,036,071), leads all AL vote-getters, followed by Rangers' team leader Michael Young (441,912) and Yankees slugger Alex Rodriguez (428,690). Boston's Mike Lowell and Toronto's Scott Rolen complete the list of the top five.

For the second consecutive week, Jason Bay (729,590) received the most votes among AL outfielders. His popularity is rivaled only by his performance on the field.

Entering Tuesday, Bay is hitting .288 and has 15 home runs and 49 RBIs in 50 games for Boston. Bay ranks ahead of Rangers center fielder Josh Hamilton (685,463) and Mariners right fielder Ichiro Suzuki in votes once again.

Bay tops a list of some of the most talented players in the game. The Rays' Carl Crawford (439,870) and the Mariners' Ken Griffey Jr. (452,849) round out the list of top five vote-getters for outfielders in the AL. The Orioles' Nick Markakis dropped out of the top five while Angels star Torii Hunter (422,220) made the jump from the 10th to the sixth spot among vote-getters.

To read the full update, click here.

Keep those votes coming.....click here to vote!

Also Today:

NESN says "Not so fast, Red Sox Nation!" -

From an article on their website this afternoon:

Along with Rangers catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Cleveland’s Victor Martinez has been a name that’s been whispered throughout Red Sox Nation over the past few weeks.

Martinez hit his eighth home run of the season Monday night off Yankees starter Joba Chamberlain, to go along with his .348 average and 37 RBIs on the season. Should Big Papi continue to struggle, Martinez seems like the perfect fit for Boston; at 30, he’s tearing the cover off the ball, and he can succeed Varitek, assuming the Sox would re-sign him in 2010 when he becomes a free agent (he has a $10 million club option for next season).

If only it were that simple.

First, Martinez’s durability behind the plate remains a question mark. With former Red Sox prospect Kelly Shoppach behind the dish, Martinez has only started 24 games at catcher for the Indians this season, with most of his playing time coming as their designated hitter.

For the Sox to land Martinez – should they even want to – they would need to give up some serious pitching prospects. Luckily for them, their talent pool runs deep. Names like Daniel Bard, Justin Masterson, Manny Delcarmen, Clay Buchholz and Michael Bowden come to mind.

We know that Epstein is always reluctant to give up young, live arms, like the five aforementioned. Essentially, it all depends on Ortiz – as if he doesn’t have enough pressure on him already. Should he miraculously re-find his power swing – much like Varitek has so far this season – the Sox may not need to get another starting bat to produce in their DH spot. They’ll still need an eventual replacement for their captain, but with him on pace for 30 home runs and 66 RBIs, that need does not become an immediate one, certainly not at the expense of one of their budding young guns.

To read the entire article, click here.

Tonight's Game:

Tek was 2-3 tonight against the Detroit Tigers with a single, a double (his tenth of the season), a walk and a run scored.

He also got Daisuke Matsuzaka through five innings to lead the Boston Red Sox past the Detroit Tigers, 5-1, in the opener of a three-game set at Comerica Park.

Tigers' rookie Rick Porcello's five-game winning streak ended tonight against the Red Sox. Jason Bay's two-run homer and J.D. Drew's two hits, including an RBI single, helped Boston chase Porcello out of the game after just 4 1/3 innings.

Fellow rookie Ryan Perry replaced Porcello and ended the fifth, but gave up four straight baserunners -- three of them on walks -- to help Boston add on an inning later. Pedroia drew a bases-loaded pass to drive in Jason Varitek. Brandon Lyon briefly tempered the threat with a fielder's-choice grounder for the second out, but then hit Kevin Youkilis to plate another run.

Relievers Manny Delcarmen, Hideki Okajima and Ramon Ramirez pitched a combined three perfect innings.

Detroit made things interesting in the ninth off Jonathan Papelbon. Three consecutive singles from Cabrera, Granderson, and Brandon Inge loaded the bases with nobody out. But Papelbon got Josh Anderson, pinch-hitter Jeff Larish, and Ramon Santiago to all go down swinging on strikes to preserve the win.

The win was Terry Francona's 500th as the Red Sox manager!

To see Jason's post-game interview, click here (videos are on the right).

For the latest game photos, click here.

Jason's current stats: AVG .248 | HR 10 | RBI 22 | OBP .337 | SLG .532 | OPS .869

Sox Take Game 3 Against Jays, 8-2

May 31, 2009

Varitek - Slavic God of Walks?

He was today!

That offensive explosion the Sox have been waiting for finally appeared today in Toronto. Kevin Youkilis hit two solo home runs, Jason Bay hit his 15th, and Dustin Pedroia nudged a three-run home-run off the foul pole. The Sox rode all that offense, and a nasty performance by Jon Lester, to a 8-2 win over the Blue Jays.

Lester was able to avoid the big inning that has plagued him through so much of this season, and he sliced up Jays batters with his slider and fastball. Lester struck out 12, a career high, and the most by a Red Sox pitcher this year. It's the most by a Sox lefty, in fact, since Brust Hurst struck out 14 in 1987. Lester left after six innings and 116 pitches, in line for the win.

"A good mix," Lester said when asked what was key to his pitching performance today. "Tek did a great job behind home plate of going in and out. I had a really good feel for my curveball today and threw a lot of changeups. I think the secret to [the Blue Jays] is you just have to keep a good mix. You can't let them look for one area or sit on a fastball."

Youkilis' first home run came in the first inning, a solo shot off Toronto rookie Ricky Romero. Pedroia followed up with one in the fourth. David Ortiz reached on a double off the centerfield wall that nearly cleared for a home run followed by Varitek who walked. Pedroia came up with two outs and hit one over the left field corner wall just the right of the foul pole.

Tek had three walks today, including one intentional by B.J. Ryan in the seventh. He also had one screaming line drive down the first base line in the fifth that was caught by his former teammate, Kevin Millar, who probably still can't feel his hand after that play! Good!

The Sox have a much needed day off tomorrow before starting their series against the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday.

To see photos from this series, click here.

(I also added some great screen caps taken by Anna Harkey from that last Twins game!)

Also This Weekend:

You can bid on Jason's 2009 Mother's Day Gear at MLB.com's auction page.

The opening bid is $1,000 and you can bid in $50.00 increments. Bidding ends on June 30th!

Proceeds from the auction benefit the Susan G. Koman Foundation for breast cancer research.

To place your bid, click here.

And:

Jason appears in a short segment on the latest edition of the Red Sox Report on NESN.

The Captain plays tour guide at Fenway Park for a little boy who is visiting with his family from the Netherlands, courtesy of the Make A Wish Organization.

You can read about his trip here, and see photos from it here.

You can watch the video here. (Thanks Adriane!).

And you can catch a few screen captures here.

The show will air again on Monday (June 1st) at 1:00pm and at 5:00pm. For more times, check NESN's television schedule page.

Take Me Out Of The Ballgame...

May 29, 2009

"I need a timeout, I may say something I might regret." --Jason Varitek to the media last night.

Quotes after the game -

"It was good, at times. There were a couple of pitches, just one of those deals. I try not to worry about things I can't control and I didn't. I said something. I didn't say anything that wasn't uncharacteristic of me. It was all caused by me." -- Josh Beckett

"Varitek was trying to keep his pitcher in the game. Varitek took one for the team, basically. Terry Francona did his job, too." -- Crew Chief Jerry Layne

"I know Beckett yelled in but Tek is protecting Beckett and I'm protecting Tek. He got Tek, and that's what I didn't want to have happen, but I'm not fast enough to get out there in time. I'd rather have him throw me out than Tek. Tek's going to have a hell of a lot more to do with the outcome than I am. Sometimes you have to state your opinion." -- Terry Francona

"Playing with Tek last year - they guy is as professional as they come! So for him to turn around and talk to the umpire, something had to have been going on. For him to do that, there had to be somethng going on!" -- Former Red Sox player and MLB Network analyst Sean Casey.

"Varitek has declined to speak about his offense all season, and yesterday he declined to speak at all. Emotions had clearly won out in the bottom of the seventh, though protecting his pitcher from being tossed in such a situation cannot be overstated, even with Beckett likely to only finish that inning." -- Boston Globe sports journalist Amalie Benjamin

"With yesterday's eruption, Varitek has hit six home runs in the latter half of this month. He has a pair of two-homer games, one in which he homered twice from the right side (May 20 vs. Toronto), the other in which he homered twice from the left (yesterday)." -- Boston Globe sports journalist Tony Massarotti

"Varitek knows the score here. He has never been one to shirk responsibility. He knows that credibility must be won on a daily basis, and he has never once given the Red Sox something less than his best effort while between the lines on any field. But then, that is why he is their captain." -- Boston Globe sports journalist Tony Massarotti on Tek's professionalism.

Read Mr. Massarotti's article on Tek here.

Notes after the game -

- Jason now has nine multi-homer games in his career. The second homer gave him 10 on the season, making him the 16th catcher in history to record double digits in home runs in 10 different seasons. -- Boston Herald

- Jason is the first Boston catcher in 30 years (since Carlton Fisk) to have two multi-homer games in 10 days. -- The Providence Journal

- Those two homers put him just behind Carlton Fisk (11) in multi-homer games by a Sox catcher. -- The Providence Journal

- Slightly less than two months into the 2009 season, Varitek this morning has 10 home runs, more than any catcher in major league baseball. Even Twins catcher Joe Mauer has just seven homers in games he has started behind the plate. (Mauer has 11 overall.) -- Boston Globe

- Varitek's first homer was estimated at 408 feet to center. The second was estimated at 427 feet, landing in the upper deck in right-center. Both came from the left side. -- Boston Globe

- Varitek now has five homers from each side of the plate and has raised his average batting left from .222 to .231 (.248 overall). -- Boston Globe

I have added a few screen captures from yesterday's game here.

Tek Hits A Homer In The 5th, And Again In The 7th...

May 28, 2009

And then gets tossed in the bottom of the 7th! Wild game!!!

First, the home runs...

"He hit the first one good, he hit the second one great!" -- Terry Francona during his post-game interview.

From RedSox.com this afternoon:

"Varitek blasts Red Sox to victory"

Only one Red Sox batter could solve Twins rookie starter Anthony Swarzak on Thursday. Fortunately, Jason Varitek's offensive contributions were all Boston required to sneak by Minnesota, 3-1, at the Metrodome.

Varitek bashed two solo home runs to account for the majority of the Red Sox's runs.

Josh Beckett was stellar, allowing only one earned run on three hits and four walks in seven innings. Beckett struck out eight, with the only damage inflicted upon him being Joe Crede's solo homer in the second.

Varitek lofted a 1-0 Swarzak changeup high over the center-field wall in the fifth to knot the score at 1. It was Swarzak's first career earned run allowed through 11 innings.

Two innings later -- in his next at-bat -- Varitek pulverized a Swarzak fastball into the upper deck in right-center field. Swarzak threw Varitek three successive fastballs to produce a 2-1 count. The fourth fastball was belt-high over the outer portion of the plate and the veteran catcher got every inch of it.

The Red Sox tacked on an insurance run in the seventh on a controversial play that ended in ejections to Twins catcher Mike Redmond and manager Ron Gardenhire.

And the ejection...

"Tek's trying to protect Beckett, I'm trying to protect Tek, and I'm not fast enough to get out there! " -- Terry Francona during his post-game interview.

From Tyler Mason, MLB.com:

"Managers, catchers ejected in finale"

As the Red Sox and Twins were wrapping up their series finale at the Metrodome on Thursday, both managers and starting catchers were ejected in the seventh inning.

Twins manager Ron Gardenhire is no stranger to getting ejected. Prior to Thursday's game against Boston, the skipper had been tossed 42 times in his career.

Minnesota catcher Mike Redmond, on the other hand, had never been ejected in his 11-year career.

But in the top of the seventh inning on Thursday, both Gardenhire and Redmond were tossed by home-plate umpire Todd Tichenor after arguing a close play at the plate.

With Jeff Bailey on third and one out, Boston's Dusin Pedroia hit a sacrifice fly to Twins right fielder Jason Kubel, who fired the relay throw home to Redmond.

Redmond thought he made the tag on Bailey. Tichenor didn't.

The veteran catcher got up quickly to argue with Tichenor, who wasted no time ejecting Redmond from the game. As Gardenhire came out to argue after Redmond was tossed, he too was given the door.

But Tichenor was just warming up.