Varitek sets record

July 19, 2006 | Hartford Courant

 

BOSTON -- Jason Varitek surpassed Carlton Fisk to set a Red Sox record by catching his 991st game Tuesday night against the Kansas City Royals.

"Fisk has talked to me over the years, and I've always been honored," Varitek said. "He was the model, he set the benchmark for my position with his weight training and durability."

After the Red Sox's 1-0 victory, he wore an ice bag on his right shoulder, right knee and on his lower back. And when the postgame interview was completed for the 18th full-time captain in team history, a small puddle of water had formed where he stood.

Varitek, in his ninth full year with the Red Sox, takes pride in his catching. There's almost universal praise from the pitchers he has worked with. "When he's not hitting, it really doesn't matter because he's a catcher first," manager Terry Francona said.

Varitek received a standing ovation when his achievement was announced after the fifth inning. Standing behind the plate with his mask off, he waved to acknowledge the crowd.

"I was very humbled, very appreciative," he said.