Captain Clutch

May 12, 2005 | Real GM Baseball | By Paul Falewicz

 

When the Boston Red Sox finalized the contract with catcher Jason Varitek last December, they knew exactly the type of player that they were keeping in the fold for the next four years. Just a little over one month into the season, the investment is paying immediate dividends.

Varitek hit a two run, walk-off home run to finish off a sweep of the Oakland A’s on May 11th. It was the second straight walk-off for the Red Sox as Kevin Millar set off the celebration the previous night.

Varitek was behind the plate as he watched closer Kevin Foulke squander a three run lead in the top of the ninth. Foulke entered the inning with the Sox leading 4-1 and left the inning with the A’s leading 5-4 after an Eric Byrnes’ dinger into the Monster Seats. That set up the dramatic bottom of the ninth.

But Varitek’s qualities go far beyond his bat. Yes, he is hitting .343 (through May 11th) with seven home runs. His batting average is currently good enough for seventh in the American League. But he was given the long-term contract because of the way he handles the pitching staff.

He was the rock of the World Series Championship run last October. He is a master at calling pitches and helping the pitchers when they are in need of a pick me up. He was the defacto captain of the team before he officially got the title after signing the contract.

This year, he is a part of the success of newcomer Matt Clement and the emergence of Bronson Arroyo. With Curt Schilling and David Wells on the disabled list, Varitek’s role has been increased and he has responded accordingly. He is teaching the young pitchers how to get American League batters out and keep the Red Sox in the race.

Varitek has been a top-notch player throughout his baseball career. He led his Little League team to Williamsport, led his Georgia Tech team to the College World Series and was named College Baseball Player of the Year in 1993. Not to mention bringing the first World Series victory for the Red Sox in 86 years.

The Red Sox have a number of superstars on their team but it is Varitek that is keeping this team focused on and off the field at bringing home the title once again.