Ask the Captain

September 7, 2006 | Boston Globe

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sox captain Jason Varitek took some time to answer your questions on the Sox, baseball, and his Celebrity Putt-Putt event.

Q: Firstly, thank you for all you have done on and off the field throughout the years. I would like to ask you what takes place between you and a new pitcher as far as figuring out what he throws and when he likes to throw it and what you bring to the table with your experience and knowledge of the hitters. Thanks again.

A: First, we determine the strengths of the pitcher. At game time we adjust according to how the hitter is reacting to the pitcher.

Q: Can you tell me about how you and Doug prepare for a game? Meetings/Pitchers meetings/video?

A:Preparation for each game is different. For a series there is a broad overview that takes place. There are advance scouting reports, count profiles, determination of batter hot and cold zones and there is an overall analysis for a particular hitter in conjunction with the pitcher.

Q: My son is an 11 year old who wants to catch. Do you think it's too early for a kid to be exclusively a catcher? If not what do you think he should work on the most to prepare him for next season? Thank you for your time we are big fans of yours.

A: My advice and experience is to play every position. From this you learn the game better and get more of an overall experience. If you stay with one position you are limiting yourself. Size and health of an athlete also is usually a determining factor in the variation of positions.

Q: Who was one of your favorite coaches? What was it you liked most about that coach? Can you talk a little about his coaching approach and philosophy that helped you to aspire and reach you goals? Thanks in advance and I hope you're feeling better as you're very much missed by this Sox fan. GO SOX!!!

A: I have quite a few favorites. However, Dale Sveum has been at the top for me. He has a great ability to teach. He is a switch hitter so that has been very beneficial in my learning. He is also very knowledgeable in fielding and base running which gives me great insight.

Q: With the numerous charities and events to attend, how do you choose which type of charity events you'll participate in or sponsor and how did you come up with the idea for the Celebrity Putt-Putt?

A: Giving back to the community is very important to me. I try to partake in as many charity events as I can. With the help of TD Banknorth I was given the opportunity to have my own charity event and I wanted to have something unique and fun for families. That is how I came up with Celebrity Putt Putt . Celebrities for Charity Foundation and Children's Hospital Boston are both great organizations that do so much for so many people that I just felt fitting that the proceeds from this event reach as many people as possible and these two charities allow me to do that.

Q: When do players have a chance to do their conditioning/weight training? If they do it during the day before the game, it seems as if they would be tired for the game. If they do it after the game, it would be very late at night, which I don't think they would do.

A: Once the season starts most players just work on a maintenance schedule. This is done either before or after and sometimes both depending on the athlete. Due to the fact that we play almost everyday, you need to listen to your body and determine what is the right course of action. For me I get the opportunity to have a solid body workout when Wake is pitching.

Q: My son Adam is a 14-year-old pitcher that is just entering high school. He has played catcher, shortstop and third base as well. In your opinion, what is the best way to showcase his talent to the school when we get closer to the application process time? Any recommendations would be appreciated.

A: I would say that the best way to showcase him would be that he doesn't forget about his school work and he keeps up his grades.

Q: With so many young players being called upon to contribute, could you please explain how it is that you and other veterans help these rookies to mature to handle the rigors of the MLB? Thanks!

A: The best way for a younger player to mature is to allow them to experience it. Having an open line of communication between rookies and veterans can shorten the process and make the transition a little easier.