Free Agency? Weird.
Oct 30th, 2007 by Curt Schilling
Hard to believe that after 21 years in professional baseball, the first day of free agency would come when I was 40 years old. I’ve not been a free agent for one day of my career before today……
Filing for free agency is weird. I never knew or thought about how it happened. Representing myself I rounded up the legal details and figured out exactly how it works. For the next 15 days I can speak with other teams, and they can contact me, but no details can be discussed. They can only express interest. For the next 15 days the team that remains my first choice, the Sox, have exclusive rights. I guess I’ll find out how closely teams follow rules…..
So this huge thing, free agency, was accomplished by doing the following.
Place a phone call to the MLBPA, tell them you want to become a free agent, hang up.
Weird. Something that can be so life altering was pretty much a 48 second phone call. They file a letter with the commissioners office “A letter of intent” that lists all the players filing that day, and it’s official.
The list of teams that our family has talked over, that we think would be a fit for next year, should we not come back, are pretty much teams in cities we agree would be ok for our last year, and teams I think have a legitimate shot at being in the post season and/or World Series. Teams we didn’t include aren’t for any one reason. There are a million little things that go into this from stadiums to school districts to travel to spring training to etc. etc. etc. but the list represents the teams after Boston that have some of the off the field things that are big to us, plus the potential to go into October next year.
Cleveland, Detroit, Anaheim, New York Mets, Philadelphia, Atlanta, L.A., S.D., Arizona, Chicago Cubs, St. Louis, Milwaukee
Thanks for not including the Yankees
Curt, your interest in returning to Boston is clear, as is the fans’ desire to have you back. That was made very clear today as I saw countless fans chanting “one more year” when your duck boat stopped in front of where I was standing. Best of luck to you wherever you may end up and, here’s to hoping that Red Sox management uses their heads!
Hi Curt,
What an amazing time it has been. As a member of Red Sox nation, it has been nothing short of spectacular to watch you pitch in the uniform. Thank you so much for all the hard work you have done - on and off the field. When my wife and I got married last year, instead of giving our guests “favors,” we made donations to Curt’s Pitch for ALS.
Your story is truely inspiring. We all appreciate everything you do. You will always have a place in the hearts of all Red Sox fans.
Once again, thanks for everything.
Good luck Curt! I’m praying for ya!
Curt I have been a Red Sox fan for a long time and I am only 24 years old down here in greenville south carolina. I feel a little closer to you guys since greenville has a Class A affilliate down here and I got to meet Jon Lester when he was down here and spend a few good minutes with him so in a weird way I feel close to you. We all know and here about the bloddy sock and it’s importance in ‘04 but I think the most important thing of that ‘04 post season was the way you carried this team on your back and refused to lose. Your leadership and experience are invaluable and irreplaceable. Now, some people may make issue that you are an old pitcher, but it has been reittirated by red sox coaches and game announcers this year, that you have re-invented yourself as a pitcher. It doesn’t matter that you had to do that or that you may have lost velocity, what matters is that you have proven to this team, theo, larry, john, terry, etc.. that you are still the man, still the big game pitcher, and that you definitely have more left in the tank. I don’t want to ramble on too much but I don’t know how else to explain it. Not just me saying this but red sox fans everywhere. I hope that the powers that be that are reading this take this information into account and make the right decision, Curt Schilling should be back as a red sock, because he has much left to offer, what I mention here and much more. If this is it, thank you Curt for all you have done for the team I have loved my whole short life. Thanks for two world championships and for the stories I will hopefully share with my grandkids someday. You truly are great and I have no doubt that you will go into cooperstown one day soon, being one of the best redsox pitchers that ever walked to the mound.
FATBOY.
Curt, there’s another team with a long history of losing and an alleged curse that could really use your leadership and expertise.
Call the Cubs, sir. My favorite baseball team could benefit from it. And look at it this way… Chicago would be another city where you’d never have to buy a drink ever again.
Good luck, Curt. I’m sure you’ll do well wherever you land.
Wherever you go, though, don’t come to camp doing the Santa Claus thing in the spring again, ok? ;p
Life changes are hard- and for what it’s worth, thank you for sharing this with us. Make the best decision for yourself and your family, and the people in Red Sox Nation will understand that. Please, please, don’t do it for the money- but I bet that’s not the first thing in your mind anyway.
I think that it is great what you have done for this game. As you can see by my login name I am a die hard cubs fan and would love to see you come to Chicago, but understand its not that easy. I have read your blogs for a while now, and finally signed up so I can contribute. Anyways good luck with the whole free agency ordeal if you don’t end up as a CUB then I hope you stay a RED SOCK.
Keep up the good work, and great job in the Series. I lost my chance to see your team play in Colorado, but still celebrated when Paplebon made the 27th out.
Tough call man. Great that it has been this many years without having to deal with free agency though.
You could always stay local and *ahem* git your MMO going.
I’m sure you’ll make the right call and good luck with whatever ends up in your future.
THANK YOU for not putting the Yankees on that list. *raises glass*
Here’s to another year in Boston.
Wow it’s weird how quickly it seems you got here and now the possibility that you’re gone. I think you’re an incredible pitcher and a first-ballot hall of famer. You’ve been remarkable in the post-season and let’s be honest not too shabby in the regular season.
I think there’s not a soul in the “nation” that doesn’t respect everything you’ve done for this team, and I can’t imagine a single person that doesn’t want you back and to retire in the Sox uniform. It’s clear you care so much about this franchise and I think it’s unfair if this front office doesn’t have you back in the Sox uniform in February.
We’ll support you no matter where you end up Curt, whether you’re back here in Boston, or a cubbie, brewer or anything else.
From the bottom of my heart, thanks for 2004, 2007 and the memories,
Tony.
Hey Curt,
Hopefully they resign you!! Nothing made my friends and myself happier than when you “made 55,000 people from New York shut up” and bring home the 1st world series. Now you have helped and brought home 2. If they don’t resign you I wish you and your family good luck. I’m sure the coming months are going to be a bit strange for you as you go through this process but nothing will be stranger to me than to not see you with the sox. These last 4 years have been great! Thanks for all the memories!!!
respectfully,
Brad!
bradpaquette@cox.net
Curt,
I have read your blogs for a while now and I felt compelled to post something.
When I was a little kid, I spent my summers at the South Jersey shore, and I remember my grandfather listening to every game you pitched for the Phillies. I always knew you as the great pitcher, but I didn’t know about your charity work until a came to New Hampshire for high school. Just reading the blogs that other people post shows that your pitching doesn’t just win games. It inspires people. And your effect of your charity work is unbelievable. You exemplify the greatest manner in which all people, not just professional athletes, should act and work.
I have enjoyed watching you pitch over the past 4 years and I hope you are able to stay in Boston. If you can’t stay, I wish you great luck. Thank you for and congratulations on your third world series championship.
Chris
Curt, you are a class act. I hope you stay in Boston. I drive through Medfield everyday going into Boston to work, and love to see the pride the town has in you. I hope you stay, you and your family are a class act.
Simply put, I hope you’re back here in Beantown next year. If not, you’re sure to have a positive and impressionable effect on your next team and its fans. You’ve been terrific to listen to and watch over these 3 years. Here’s to you and your family. Keep the faith.
I look forward to reading your blogs regarding free agency.
Congrats on another Ring. You pitched your heart out and did great. I am a Mets fan and if we are able to sign you, I am sure you will give us your best and be very successful with us. Whatever you choose to do, I hope that God allows you to go out there and compete at the level that you have been accustomed to. May God Bless you and your family as you enjoy this great season.
David
Cape Coral Fl.
Curt,
I am one of many who would love to see you back. You have given the Red Sox and the people of New England one more great reason to love the Sox.
Thanks for all you have given us in your years here and good luck next year ( when you finish your career with the Red Sox ).
Curt, I appreciate your thoughtful posts throughout the season, and hope you will be back in Boston next season.
Just a phone call–thats really simple for such a significant event in an athletes career. Best of luck entering the untrodden territory of free agency. I hope it’ll come full circle back to Boston for one more year. thank you for all you’ve done for the team and us, the fans. If boston doesn’t work out make sure you dont get yourself caught in pinstripes next year!
god bless you and your family
I have always thought an established athlete, especially in a sport like basketball where salaries are specifically denoted by seniority, is doing him/herself a disservice by hiring an agent. The fact is, you know, have demonstrated, and established a market over the years. Letting an agent get his cut on your reputation and achievements seems like a poor decision when you are intelligent enough to make your own decisions.
Mr. Schilling,
On behalf of the city of Boston, and Red Sox Nation, if this happens to be your last season with us, I sincerely wish you the best of luck, and thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to the game. It was a great 4 years, and I couldn’t have scripted it any better myself. I wish you all the success in the world. Thanks again man.
Justin Pietrella
Thus I commend your decision (should have added that above).
I hate to think of you leaving the Sox, Curt…if it happens I want to wish you luck. I would love to see you as the Sox pitching coach in the near future. I think you have a great future in coaching/managing.
Hey Curt. I hope to hell you stay put in Boston. I realize things may be out of your control, but I hope management does the right thing and makes an offer that keeps you here!
-Lou
Curt, you are a complete pompous jerk. I can’t believe the ego on you. Just being honest, isn’t necessarily a good quality. Its no wonder that you are among the least liked players in the league. You are a great pitcher, there’s no denying that. But given your obnoxious personality, I think Boston is the PERFECT fit for you. You fit in well with the rest of those boasting, snotty twits there in old Beantown. Its sad how your team disgraces this fine game by not running out fly balls and showing up your opponents (see Ramirez and Papelbon). Good luck in your first foray into free agency in “21 years”. I hope you and the Red Sox are reunited, so you can retire in the city where you fit in so well.
I wish you the best in your free angency venture. If you don’t retire with a B on you cap…I will definately be upset. But, will always follow your starts and i wish you the best Curt. Thanks for 2004-2007.
Hope you can finish here, Curt. If not, then we all wish you the best of all things, and hope you will understand the gratitude we have for all of the joy and thrills you have brought us all in your time here. I’m keeping my fingers crossed! Thank you, Curt!
curt, you will forever be remembered deeply in the hearts of red sox fans everywhere. i still remember the November night in 2003 when i went to ESPN.com and saw that you had accepted the trade to the Sox. I ran upstairs and hugged my father, hoping that our lifetime struggle of rooting for a losing team was over. you didn’t disappoint. it was an honor to watch you do what teams for 86 years could not.
thank you from my bottom of my heart
Chicago.
Then you become the official “Cursebuster”
As a New Yorker, I wouldn’t mind seeing you with the Mets. I think they could use the stability you obviously bring to a team not only with your experience but with your attitude. I notice you didn’t cite their crosstown rivals as a possibility.
Hey Curt,
I would love to see you cap your career by cementing the Red Sox dynasty with a 3rd WS trophy in 5 years.
That said, if negotiations don’t work out for whatever reason in Boston, please consider returning to Philadelphia. You are still a hero around here and we’d be honored to have you back.
Best Regards,
Mark
I love that you use your blog to connect to the fanbase and to help ensure that your message gets out in there in your own words.
Kurt,
I saw you today in the parade and we made eye contact briefly. I gave you the thumbs up and you mouthed the words thank you. Thank You.
I have been so impressed by your commitment, confidence, and professionalism since you came to the Red Sox. My words cannot describe the depth of respect and admiration me and my family have for you. While I am an avid sports fan I have never identified with any one individual until you. I have not attended a Sox game in many years but I work at Berklee College Of Music and nightly watch the fans streaming by on their way to the ball park. After 26 years in New England the Sox are in my blood.
The first major sports apparel I ever bought was a Shilling jersy after your World series game last week. My family and I (wife and three teenagers) traveled to Denver last Friday to attended my brothers wedding. We did not have tickets to the game but it was great fun to were my jersey on the plane and almost the entire three days in CO. My wife insisted I replace the jersey with a suit and tie for the wedding ceremony but I quickly changed back to the Schilling jersy for Saturday nights game admist a room full of Rockies fans. They stopped ribbing me after you guys pulled out to the 6-0 lead. Thanks.
Kurt, I just wanted to tell you what a great feeling it was today to see you face to face in the parade. Thanks again for all that you have done and continue to do. You will always be my favorite Red Sox.
Sincerley,
Jim Stinnett
145 North Rd.
Candia, NH 03034
I’m curious, was it an automated phone system??
“Press 1 if you wish to become a free agent…”
Hopefully you won’t have to worry about packing up, and you and your family can stay where you are.
Is it wrong that I’m really, REALLY happy not to see New York Pinstripes on that list?
Good luck where ever you end up next year… but I sure hope it’s back in Fenway!
Well being a die hard fan for my entire 24 years of existence, I must say losing you to free agency would be more than a loss to myself, not to mention all of Red Sox Nation. You’ve clearly proven that age means nothing when it comes to the game. The experience and integrity you’ve brought to this team could not be matched by any other big time pitcher. Day in and day out you’ve proven that with age comes wisdom, and regardless of your fastball not reaching the mid-90’s like it once was, you’ve proven to everyone that control and off-speed are the keys to today’s game. Anyone can hit a fastball, only the best can hit a curveball that easily drops off the table.
I can understand your wants to move to a team that has a good area to raise your family, it’s clearly understandable. Anyone in your situation would do the same if the Sox didn’t offer you what you were looking for. Just know that you as a pitcher, a player, a father figure, and a mentor to the team, as well as Red Sox Nation could not be matched by anyone else.
Hopefully the administration will realize how important you are and have been to this organization and will keep you around until you’re using a walker to get out to the mound. If not, please believe we all will still have the utmost respect and support for you regardless of who you’re playing for.
Rich
Greetings from Texas. As a devoted Red Sox fan naturally I would love to see you finish your amazing and inspiring baseball career with Boston, but I would like you to know that regardless of where you end this journey, what you have given us, the fans, will never be forgotten. I’ve always admired your courage, both on and off the field, your willingness to speak your mind while still maintaining grace and dignity is admirable. Your work ethic and sense of character and poise will be sorely missed when you leave this great sport of baseball, but I wish you and your family all the best in any city and any endeavor which you embark on, a grateful fan forever,
Adriana
Curt, whatever may happen with free agency - Thank You! Thank you for helping bring two world championships to the city of Boston. Thank you, and your family, for all your generous contributions to local and national charities. Thank you for being open and accessible to the fans. You’re a cut above the rest, and it has been utter joy having you as part of the Sox! I very much hope to see you return in 2008 (the nation would love to see you retire a Red Sox), but if things don’t work - we’ll always be rooting for you (unless of course you end up in NYY
Congratulations on another GREAT championship!
Namaste,
Chuck from NH
OK
I guess last post wasnt my only post. I guess you have me hooked.
I can only imagine what a strange feeling that must be for you and your family.
I hope this works out the best way possible for you and your family. I’d love to see you back in a Sox uniform, but that may or may not happen.
I and every other Sox fan will be watching with great interest. Congratulations again for all you have accomplished as a player and as a man.
Thank you for being who you are.
Curt, as a red sox fan all my life, you sir are a class act. the past 4 years for us the fans it has been a thrill to watch you play. I am not alone when I say I hope and pray that the boys in the front office toss you another year with the sox’s becaus I want to be sitting in fenway the day you retire and the day they retire your number.
what you did in game 6 of 04 for this team, this city and region can not expressed in words. my grand dad use to say all i want to see is the soc win one before I die. sadly he didn’t, my dad said the same, he saw it. it was your unselfish act that sparked that team and gave hope to all of us. you sir earned the respect of fans and this city more than you will ever know. I hope that they in the front office feel the same way. you need to be here, we want you here and need you here. so we the fans sit back and pray that it happens. and if by some chance it does not happen I want to say thank you,thank you very very much. god bless you and your’s . because sir in this town it is we who oue you!
Dear Curt, thank you for everything that you have done for the Red Sox. In 2003, the Nation was a passionate but defeated bunch. It had happened again. You and Keith Foulke were signed, and you promised a championship. You delivered two. More importantly, I think that the whole mentality of the Red Sox changed. No longer second best but winners in their own right - can get it done anytime, anywhere, with anybody. In essence, this is no longer our parent’s Sox. You brought “the good karma”. You promised, arrived, delivered, and changed the culture of the Red Sox. Thank you again. It’s been a really good run.
Hey Mr.Shilling, I’m a Phillies fan and we have been dieing for a championship here for 27 years, if you come to Philadelphia then that would lock up the National League, me and everyone wants you here…all I’m asking is for one year.
All the best with your free agency. I am sure you will hear from the redsox front office soon. Boston needs you back and you wanna come back… So, theres no reason for things to be otherwise. All I hope is “couple of millions” is not the deciding factor!!
Let this be your beginning for World Series 2008 with Redsox!!!
The honesty and forthrightness is appreciated, but just to discuss you in another uniform gives fans like me heart palpitations — seeing you in a Cubs uniform? Angels…?! TIGERS!? The Braves……? Man… Boston is home. ( And God bless for ruling out NYY. )
hey curt,
regarding free agency, i think you should stay and finish your career as a red sox. lol. me, im a yankee fan but mann you can pitch and your awesome! sry but its true yankee fans. i got a lot of resspect for you and im sure so as the rest of the world. i think one more year wont hurt lol but thats up to you ovcourse and your family. even though you might think you didnt do enough or wasnt enough this season and the playoffs. well, let me tell you something people at work and everyone else want to see you back. lata curt and God Bless
I sincerely hope that the Red Sox re-sign you to a new contract. Not just for what you can bring to the mound every five days, but also for what you can do to contribute to the progression of the young guys. I honestly think that it was yourself along with the many other veterans on the team that kept the team calm and focused after going down three nothing to Cleveland. But if for some reason this is it for you in a Red Sox uniform, I think I could speak on the behalf of Red Sox Nation as saying thank you for everything you have done not only for the team, but also for the thousands in the New England region. There would be no 2004 or 2007 championships without your contributions. I wish you luck reguardless of whatever happens over this winter and if you end up in a different uniform next season I wish you luck and hope you can bring a championship to that city. Unless you are facing the Red Sox then of course that is a different story.
First off, congrats to you, the rest of the team and Red Sox nation for another well deserved World Series win.
This time of year in the baseball world is so bittersweet. I love watching my favorite team compete in October, but its hard to forget that free agency is looming for many of our players. You are one of the many players on the team who has done so much for Red Sox nation and the city of Boston. We couldn’t have done it without you in ‘04 and your performance in ‘07 was just as remarkable.
For you and the other players enlisting as free agents over the next few weeks, I wish you the best of luck. However, I sincerely hope to see your name on the roster in ‘08. Regardless of what happens, I hope you realize the impact you have had on Red Sox nation. Your efforts will never be forgotten.
Although I have never had the opportunity to meet you, you seem to be a stand up guy with strong values. Professional sports should have more Curt Schillings!
Thanks Curt.
P.S. I hope you have a special guest (Theo!) at Thanksgiving again this year!
Good Luck Curt - but I still think you will be back at Fenway next year
Curt -
You’ve dedicated a lot of time on your posts to free agency, considering both your decision and Mike Lowell’s, and how you both need to do the right thing for your families.
I’m 100% behind you on this. While I think your velocity and consistency during the regular season won’t win you the giant contract you’re looking for (I hear Scott Boras is looking for new clients), I, like most of Red Sox Nation hope that Lowell comes back next year.
As you said however, he has a family to think of. Having only made $9 million this year, while many families are priced right out of the experience, thrill and history of a live baseball game at Fenway, I can understand how free agents in pro sports today need to really make sure they’re making the right decisions for their family.
As you’ve said here a hundred times, if one of us writing to you could make more money at work, wouldn’t you take it? Absolutely.
Just a little math here. If the Red Sox organization pays you bi-weekly as most organizations do today, you’re getting about half a mil per PAYCHECK. That’s like hitting the lottery every couple of weeks for people who are reading this. Not to mention money from sponsorship, respect and admiration through the roof from adoring fans, having to never pay for a drink or meal from Bangor to Hartford - all for working fewer days annually than a teacher. You make over $35,000 per day by my calculations - more than many Americans make in a year.
And on this blog for the entire word to see, whenever anyone has made a comment about your salary, free agency and you possibly shopping around so you and others can do what is best for your families, you’ve done nothing but mock them or make a wise ass comment. You’re totally the guy I want to be the spokesman for Christianity.
And to think of the fact that a ton of people who’ve never met you before probably making $500 per paycheck (that’s 3 zeros behind you, man) will defend you over this post, well, I guess that’s a bigger irony than you praising Jesus while looking for a bigger contract all in the same blog entry.
Wait, not ironic enough? How about being a huge supporter of fighting ALS while campaigning for a guy who vetoes stem cell research? Because after all, if there’s anything Jesus would have supported, it would be war, killing stem cell research, and you getting $14 million a year.
I wish you and your families luck. If money is really getting tight and you need to foreclose, I’m sure one of the fans on here would be willing to let you crash on their couch, and eat mac and cheese right out of the pot with them.
Thanks for the memories. I’ll be thinking of your free agent dilemma as I pay for my car insurance with my credit card.
Hey curt,
I think you had a good year considering the different obstacles you have went through. I like the way you keep track of what you throw to different batters. I think you should come back to boston for one more year and retire out on top with another ws title in boston. As for the red soxs what big moves did you see happening this off season.
Shawn H
Hey Schill,
how about coming back to the Phillies? I know i would love to see you pitch with that Phillies “P” that always faded when you finished a game.
Curt we would love you to have you in Detroit!! You could front a staff that includes Verlander, Bonderman, Robertson, and hopefully Kenny Rogers. We also have a pretty good bullpen with the Phenom Joel Zumaya leading the way. Mix that in with one of the best offenses in the American League and we are definately one of the top 3 or 4 teams on paper going into the season. One more thing to consider is that we to HATE the Yankees!!!
please Curt don’t leave! God bless you and your familiy
Where ever you end up Curt, you’ll always have a place to come home to in Boston. We loved you here and appreciate your dedication and service. Thank you for your blood, sweat, tears, arm and blog!
Curt, as a Cubs fan I really hope you come to Chicago. You’d be a welcome addition to our pitching staff. Wouldn’t winning the world series with the Cubs be icing on the cake of a GREAT career?
wherever you go, good luck next year (unless it’s St. Louis or Milwaukee!)
Curt,
I went through my entire high school existence as the kid who everyone else thought was weird, because I pursued my interests and passion as a performer above everything else. Sports never interested me. Not out of dislike, but because I was so focused on what I was doing and I knew that you had to put in %150 to even dream of becoming a successful actor. Even though I grew up in Atlanta, I went to maybe one or two Braves games and that was it. Then I spent a fateful summer in New Hampshire. It was there that I was truly introduced to the Red Sox. [I live in Boston but MAN those crazy fans in New Hampshire give Bostonians a run for their money!] All of a sudden it became an addiction! I’d be at work [backstage at a theatre] on my laptop following the gamecasts. I found myself reading books, newspaper articles, magazines, websites, gathering all the information I could on baseball and The Red Sox. I realized that people like you are a role model to me. Even though I will never make it out of the Sandlot as a baseball player - you have worked so incredibly hard to get to where you are as a player. Your focus on the field is amazing. You, sir, are a brilliant pitcher and will forever be a legend. I admire your ability to be one of the top players in the game but to maintain a family and your Christian faith. That is something I aspire to as well. I made the transition this season from someone completely ignorant to sports to a HUGE Red Sox fan, as well as a fan of the sport of baseball. The wonderful thing about the Red Sox organization is that they ARE playing the game - and it IS about the game.
I, along with the rest of us here in Boston, will follow you wherever you are next season. However, it would be an absolute thrill to see you retire in a Red Sox uniform. I have unfortunately not made it to a Fenway game yet, although I’ve stood outside for many an inning. If you are here next season, I’ll be at a game where you are starting. I am proud to have begun my new life as a sports fan as a Red Sox fan - and its players like you that make it worth it.
Congratulations on bringing the Sox the World Series title.
Matt
What, no Tampa Bay?
But seriously, folks…
It’s really easy for me to say this, because (1) I don’t stand to lose five million dollars over it, and (2) I root for the Red Sox and hence want you to stay there.
But if you and your family are happy here, could you to accept a mere, say, $8 million to stay in Boston, rather than getting an extra 5 or so elsewhere? Hopefully, you and your family are in great financial shape already.
For me as an outsider, it sometimes seems like at contract time, some players try to squeeze an extra 10 or 20 percent out of teams, only to be significantly less happy in their new environment. (See Rod, A-).
Obviously there’s a million things that go into your decision– and a bunch of stuff the Sox have to do to demonstrate that they still want you here. And $5m to them isn’t the hugest deal in the world, either, so why should you make all the compromises. I’m not pre-emptively accusing you of trying to drive an obnoxious, Boras-esque bargain with the Sox. Just wondering what your frame of mind is as you go into this sort of thing.
I sure hope that you stay.
If not, enjoy the ride of free agency. It’s nice to be wanted. Those are a lot of great cities you could wind up in.
Plus Deroit, St. Louis, and Cleveland.
Thanks for the years Schilling and the two world series but your list of places you want to go was just wrong. Would it have killed you to wait a few days and let the Red Sox fans enjoy you and the World Series.?
The Indians fans called Dice-K rice-K. I would hope you wouldn’t want to play in a place like that.
Curt…
Being a life long Redsox fan, I can not thank you enough for all you have done for the Redsox. 4 years ago, you promised a championship, and you helped deliver 2. Thanks for all you have done.
My heart and mind want to see you return to the Sox. You belong here, and if you truly only want one more year, your presence could help deliver a third championship.
Though 21 years have gone by, enjoy the experience of free agency, yet remain in Boston for your final year…..continue to build your legacy within Redsox Nation
Curt, take the money the Mets won’t be paying Glavine. You’ll love Queens, dude.
Curt — as a lifelong Phillies fan, I would love it if you finished your career where it blossomed. While many in Philly remember your exploits on the diamond I will most remember something else, something that happened in a TV studio. When I was younger, I watched in awe as you sparred one on one with Scott Boras on Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia, debating with him why JD Drew should deserve a fat contract when he hadn’t proven a thing. Rarely have I seen Boars at a loss for words, but you did it with the force and righteousness of your convictions. You didn’t have to do it, you didn’t need to do it, but you did it because it was right, especially in a city that treasured it’s blue collar work ethic. For that moment, you stood for everything that made me proud to say I was born in Philadelphia. I have only one Phillies jersey, not a Mike Schmidt one or a Steve Carlton one, not one with the name of Jimmy Rollins or Chase Utley. Whenever I go to a Phillies game I have your name on my back, because I will always remember till the day I die that day you were watching our backs. Please strongly consider Phiadelphia as your next destination and I look forward to seeing you at Broad and Pattison again.
Best of Luck to you Curt. I have enjoyed the efforts and sacrifices you have made for our beloved RedSox. I sincerely hope that life allows you to retire in a RedSox Uniform, but if that is not the case, may the Lord Bless you in your journey.
Keep the Faith and God Bless.
HMMMM THE METS ARE LOOKING FOR SP…. lets bring A-rod and Shilling….you can play bench until Playoffs and we will win for sure!!!
Curt,
I’d love to see you spend one more year in a Red Sox uniform. And, as someone who has never written a fan letter or posted on a blog like this before, thanks for your time with the Red Sox, whatever happens. I think until the day I die it will make me smile to think of the 2004 World Series run and what you did for the Sox that year. Thanks for bringing out the good stuff again this year and congratulations on another championship. You’re a terrific athlete and it’s been a joy to be able to cheer for you. Hope we can do it again in 2008.
Jason
Curt- I believe San Diego is the place for you. Remember the game you would of thrown the no-no if it wasn’t for the infamous Baby Ben Davis Bunt? I’m sure you do. San Diego is a great place to raise the family… after you retire you won’t have move. Anyways, I think you would mesh great with Jake, CY and Mad Dog.
Best of luck. Hope to see you at the park!
Hey Curt, I remember when my grandfather who we called “Chief” said way back in 98 or 99 that the Sox should get Shilling. Here you are and celebrating World Series ring #2 with them. I would love to see you back wearing #38 proudly standing on the mound at the greatest park in the world in front of the greatest fans. The only thing that is a shame is that “The Chief” didn’t get to see you pitch and guide the Sox to a championship while he was on this earth. Hope to see you next year.
Good luck and God Bless.
Hey Curt- I just wanted you to know you had an amazing playoff performance and good luck to where ever you go..hopefully Boston!
HEY!
GO TO THE METS!
THEY HAVE A YOUNG PITCHING STAFF THAT WOULD LOVE TO THROW WITH YOU! MAINE. PELFREY. PEREZ.
and o yea - GUY NAMED PEDRO!
-
you can win in Boston, Phoenix - but to win in NYC is the cream of the crop. THERE IS NO BETTER PLACE TO WIN!
lets go mets!
Hey Curt,
Congratulations on winning the 2007 World Series with the Red Sox and Congratulations on a great 2007 season.
I read your blog and it is no surprise you were never a free agent. What team would want to let you get away?
I am very pleased that you listed the Mets among the teams you would sign with. A month ago, after the Mets’ season ended, I told all of my friends that I hoped you would be signed to replace Tom Glavine at the front of the rotation. How weird/fun would it be for you to join your old battery mate, Pedro Martinez on the Mets?
I truly believe the Mets would benefit by signing you. You would be a fantastic addition to the team. Curt, you are a great pitcher and one of the best playoff pitchers ever. You know how to win and you are a great influence in the clubhouse. Additionally, youngsters Mike Pelfrey and Philip Humber could learn a great deal from you. I really hope that you bring your playoff/championship experience to the New York Mets. We need more guys like you. I only hope Omar Minaya realizes the same thing.
Whereever you may end up Curt, I wish you lots of luck and success (unless it’s a division rival of the Mets, haha, just kidding). I hope the next time I see you, it will be the 1st or 2nd day of the season, wearing Mets blue and orange.
Best,
Richard
P.S. I LOVE how you excluded the Yankees on your list. Screw them!
Curt,
You probably won’t read this but I still feel like I have to write in to this and have you know another opinion of another fan of yours. In 1993 my father took me to my very first pro baseball game, I was five years old. There was a man pitching that day that with the first pitch he threw I knew he was larger than life and I wanted to be just like him, Curt Schilling. My dad being a Yankees fan hated the fact that I feel in love with the Philadelphia Phillies, but how is a five year old not going to fall in love with a team that looks like they are having so much fun, not to mention those ridiculous hair cuts. The point I’m getting at is that now I am almost 20 and I’m still in love with the Philadelphia Phillies, nothing would be better than to see you pitch again with this team, plus I know Kendrick would really learn something from you. Thank you so much for being the amazing player you are and thank you for pitching that fateful day because from there on I am a diehard Phillies fan for life.
Hi Curt,
Congrats on the 2007 world series. You pitched well and you truly are one of my favorite pitchers. If you and boston part ways i would love to see you in a dodger uniform. That in my opinion would be one of the greatest moments of 2008. Seeing you in dodger blue!
Best Of Luck
Hey Mr. Schilling,
I would just like to thank you for letting us a have a peak inside what goes on through your thought process. I for one am a Dodger fan, and although you may not want to join us because Torre (ex-Yankee) is our new manager, I still think you should seriously consider it. We have money, we will sign a bat, and now with the huge upgrade in coaching staff, we have to be considered as one of the top contenders to represent the National League in the 2008 World Series. L.A. has great schools and a great atmosphere, and I would love for you to be a part of our winning ways in 2008. Call me an optimist, but looking at it realistically we have to be a contender. Schill you are quite a pitcher and I hope you will change your prime color and bleed Dodger Blue in ‘08.
I am not normally inclined to posting replies, but when I listened to your segment on WEEI (which I try to listen to regularly), I felt compelled to at least add one more voice to the throngs of those asking you to stay and finish it here in Boston. I would not consider myself to be the baseball fan I once was……the days of going to Fenway with my Dad are long since past….but I have been back on the Sox bandwagon since that magic season in ‘04……which also coincides with signing of one Curt Schilling, of whom I would have to say I am a bigger fan of……in my mind it just seems like you belong here……even if only for the calming dose of sanity you could add to the mix……..and don’t take this the wrong way (as I have no way of knowing how it is perceived in your circle) but eventually move into the pitching coach’s slot that will at some point be vacated by Farrell…….it seems to me with your vast knowledge it would be a natural fit…..and I don’t imagine it would be very long before you were running your own show…you have boss written all over….although you may have loftier goals……these just happen to be my thoughts on the subject…….one more year????
Curt,
Can’t wait to see you sporting Brewer Blue next year. Trust me, you will love it here. The city is going crazy for baseball, and you would quickly become the toast of the town! Good luck with whatever your choice is. You are a great role model, and any team would be lucky to have you on their staff.
The Red Sox are the reason I love baseball [ see: 1986 when I learned about the emotions of the game ]. The Diamondbacks are where my every baseball related thought and positive feeling forevermore permanently reside. Thanks for all that you’ve contributed to that.
Mr Schilling,
I must admit I almost feel a little choked up at the thought of you leaving Boston. You’ve only been here for a short time but you’ve won the heart of Red Sox nation. The heart and soul you put in on AND off the field has made a huge impact on me as a person. The way you treat your fans, your bosses, and your teammates is nothing but pure class. The way you took the younger kids on the team under your wing… wow, just wow.
And then there’s everything you do off the field. From making video games to saving lives with the ALS. The presence you bring to the club house, the way you reach out the fans, the love and devotion you show to your family and your wife. You are truly a remarkable person.
I hope you return to the Red Sox for one more year. Knowing you retired in a Red Sox uniform would make me even more proud to be part of this great Red Sox nation. But if god should have other plans for you, I wish you and your family all the best. You will leave a lasting impact on wherever you land, that I am sure of. While next year may be your last year in baseball, remember that your story is far from over. You have so many more great things to achieve, people to touch, and lives to save.
If you really do leave Boston this offseason, you will take a piece of Red Sox nation with you. I know that wherever you end up (save the Yankees, hehe), you will have the whole of Red Sox nation behind you. Not that you need us, you were great before us and you will be great long after us. Thank you Curt. Not just for what you do on the field, but for everything you do off the field.
Just one last word… What you’ve done for Peter Despain and his family just goes to show how special of a person you really are. That one selfless act will land you in the most important hall of fame of all; the one that sits above the clouds waiting for you.
God bless you and Shonda, your children, and your family.
Jason LaChapelle
Mark38
As a Red Sox fan since 1956, I greatly appreciate all you have done during the past four years. It wasn’t easy this year, was it especially the loss to the Rockies last June followed by the game in Atlanta and time on the disabled list. Please know that I appreciate your efforts and sincerely believe the Red Sox ownership does as well. I admire your strong faith in God and your sincerity. Hopefully Messers Henry, Luccino and Werner value the contributions you made during the ALCS and World Series. We could not have made it to the World Series without the vallant effort in game six agains Cleveland or the effort in the second game against Colorado.
Red Sox Nation supports you and wishes you well.
Mark in Durham, NC
Curt,
I found this web site on accident and after surfing through this for several hours, i can not even began to express how incrediable this web site really is. It pours out such in-sight and such… “curtness”. I remember driving home from college hearing that we signed you. As a matter of fact, i remember the All-Star game in Cleveland when the fans there gave you a standing ovation and attempted to draw you in. I was young then and all i kept thinking was… I hope Curt doesnt have to face Boston. Thank you for the best 4 years in Redsox history. Thank you for game 6, championships back in boston…. Thank you for making me buy myself 2 redsox/yankee tickets and 2 airplane tickets, fly myself from jersey to boston, just to see you make that long walk from the bullpen to the mound to make your very first start against the yankees, (which you one) If everything works out, you and the sox come to an understanding and you are back… you will cap an amazing career, with an amazing team in an amazing city. I have followed you ever since i picked up a baseball… just hang around for one more season.
Thank you for taking the mound, pitching your heart out, speaking your mind, and just being who you are and playing how you did.
A boston red sox fan.
I am a Red Sox fan. I would love to have you back for and retire as a Red Sox. With that said, I think the introduction of Buchholz the past season makes the situation rather complicated. I think the team sees him ready for the rotation. It would be nice to have six solid starters, but it won’t be fair for either you or Buchholz. You will definitely need a full season of starts to get enough wins to pad your stats for the HOF. The team signed you for four years because you said that you would retire after 2007 season. I really don’t think you should retire, but I think the team may already have plans to cut your salary. You know very well how the Red Sox front office works (Damon, Lowe and Martinez). They know that your market value is higher, but the front office will offer you what you are worth to the Red Sox next year. I can’t really blame them because it is a good business model and I hope they continue to cut more salaries and utilize their farm system. I think you also know that what they are doing is right, however heartless sometimes. So, I sincerely hope that you would take a paycut and stay with the Red Sox. Otherwise, I think your best bet to the World Series next year and to the HOF is with the Cubs. Whatever happpens, thank you for the championships.
Would love to see you replace Tom Glavine as the ace and player/mentor on the Mets staff. We’ve got some good young pitchers with some mental problems who could use the help of a guy like you. Wherever you go, best of luck to you - you’re a class act, and its nice to see that guys like you still exist in baseball.
I don’t think I’ll ever forget the look on your face as you walked off the mound for probably your last time at Fenway in a Sox uniform. As much as we’d all love you to stay, I guess it’s looking like that isn’t going to happen. I just wanted to thank you for all you’ve done for my city of Boston, and I wish you the best of luck in the year to come!
Unless you join the Yankees.
Yo Curt. As a Phillies fan Id be disgraced to see you in a mets or braves uniform. I think youd be a good fit here in Philly. With both you and Jamie Moyer helping Kendrick and Hamels and even Carrasco in spring training those three pitchers would no how to handle themselves in any situation. And of course the Phillies are winning the east again so you could be an experienced arm in the post season rotation. But you gonna let Kendrick keep #38? Hed be happy to give it up he wanted #25 anyway the organization just wouldnt give it to him
Curt,
I have been a part of the Red Sox Nation my whole life. I have never seen anyone pitch with as much heart and determination as you, and I have never seen anybody have so much pride in themselves in putting on that Boston uniform. I would love to see you stay, but I understand if you go. I believe that you were easily part of the soul of this team and you were amazing this past year. Stay healthy, stay off the DL and I know you could easily bring another Championship back to Boston!!! Thanks for the memories Mr. Schilling
Scuba
Curt, great season! Would you consider coming back for something in the range of 8 million? if so, the red sox would be stupid to not do that. i mean, maybe you could just pull a roger and take half a year off, and come back to the red sox, seems like the thing to do. anyways, thanks for breaking the curse, im sure the red sox will make you an offer, although they have made a number of horrible decisions over the past couple of years. i can understand why you should expect nothing less than 12 or 13 million when a guy like JD Drew is getting paid 14 mill for 5 years. if the red sox dont make you a great offer, dont sign with anyone else and wait for wakefield or someone else to get hurt, as it would be asking a lot to stay as healthy as we did this year.
Dear Mr. Curt Schilling,
I believe that you belong back in Arizona. You attended highschool here and you won your 1st championship here along side Fellow pitcher Randy Johnson. Randy is back from back problems (hopefully). I believe it would be amazing to have you back in Arizona and hopefully we could make another playoff run in 2008.
Hey Curt
I am a 41 year old lifelong sox fan who never figured to see them win even 1 championship much less 2.I would like to thank you for being as responsible as anyone for changing not only that but the whole attitude of red sox nation.you walked into town with a swagger of a proven winner and have left an indelible mark on this franchise and city.as important as all that is to me and many other loyal fans whats more important is the way you led by example with all you have done for not only als but many other worthwhile causes and charities.for that we all owe you a debt of grattitude.
if in fact it is the end of your run in boston thanks for the ride Curt.no offense to the great Josh Beckett but you will always be the Ace
Woody
Curt, come back to the D-backs! The team needs a mentor for the pitchers better than Randy Johnson. Not that I doubt his skills, but he doesnt come off as a teacher type of guy.
The randy/curt duo again would be great to watch as a fan, even if yall aren’t the aces you were 6 years ago. We still love ya both in AZ!!
We want you to stay with the Red Sox and wish the management would do what it needs to do to keep you. Your presence on the team is a critical component of its success and your contributions indeed extend far beyond statistical data (though that should be sufficient). Sentimentality need not be factored in to any discussion of your value to the Red Sox in ‘08; your worth remains certain, measureable, and substantial, and the fact that you have to go the free agency route is unfortunate. If the organization uses its head, they will get the deal done. If not, they will have disappointed the multitude of fans who believe that you have more than enough left in your arm and, of equal importance, your heart to go the distance again next year. Beyond all this, I want you to know that you will be forever revered for your accomplishments and contributions as a member of the Red Sox team and that, even if you do somehow, someday end up wearing another uniform, you’ll always be one of us. Our affection for you is enduring and our appreciation of what you have done for us is boundless.
Hi Curt!
Just wanted to say thank you for including my city in your thoughts! I know and understand that there is a limited chance of you coming here, however, I assure you this would be the place to sign RIGHT NOW. Granted, I am bias, but as you know we have one of the youngest up and coming teams in the bigs. Fielder, Weeks, Braun, Hart, Gallardo, Villanueva, Sheets..
This team has a lot of talent, and I truly beleive next year this team is going to break out. Anastasio is a great owner, and he wants to SUCCEED.
Also, the part I love the most about our city is that its a big city, and has all the amenities as one, but, it is not NEARLY as crowded as Chicago, or Boston.
We have a beautiful state, and I hope that you make a great choice for your family(coming here!) Ha!
Good luck in your decision, and good luck in 2008!
Schill:
I am shocked, yet I truly understand the situation. Having been around professional athletes, I understand what you are going through.
It’s a hard decision and I’m sure it might have caused you a few sleepless nights and melancholy moments. Whatever decision you make, it will be in the best interest of the Schilling family first. And how anyone can criticize you for that.
This is how I’m reading this. With you filing for free agency (yet Boston retains the rights) for a one year deal, this might free up some money for Mike Lowell who the Sox need to re-sign. So what I’m reading into this. You’re willing to negotiate for the sake of Lowell who deserves everything but the best. That is noble, something that is missing in the world of professional sports but a breath of fresh air.
Somebody is actually more concerned about the team, rather than himself.
Just like that NESN interview I saw with Mike Timlin and Tim Wakefield after the clincher. Those guys wanted to win for Wakey because it was hard for a warrior to pull himself off the roster. He gave himself up for the sake of the team.
Schill … no matter what happens. You will always be considered a Red Sox legend. The Bloody Sock, the key post season Sox wins with you on the mound. “Win It For …” Reading this blog and articles is bringing a tear to my eye. Please, for the sake of Red Sox Nation, it would be fitting for you to end your career in Boston … but I understand and I hope others do.
I know you don’t care and neither do I … about what the media says about you. Barry Bonds can take his bat, ball and record and shove it where the sun don’t shine. You’ve done it with more class, dignity and respected the Game more than what that Jerk has done.
Godspeed.
Aloha Curt,
Congratulations on another World Series. Hope to see you in a Red Sox uniform again next year. But letting you go wouldn’t be the first dumbass thing the front office has ever done.
What I really want to thank you for though is encouraging Dice-K. You said the adjustments you recommended to him would have an immediate effect on his fastball and they did. Right on. Very generous.
Mahalo and all the best.
Hey there Curt,
Here’s to hoping you come back to Philly and have a great year where it all first came together for you!!! Phillies fans still love you, and hope that you can help us finally get over the hump.
–Ryan
Curt,
We were so excited when you decided to come to Boston, to help break the 86 year old curse. Our winter of 2003-2004 was brightened by the prospect of you pitching for our beloved Sox. My Dad held on to see you win it all in 2004 and died the next spring. Now that the 4 years have flown by so quickly, and you have accomplished what you came here to do, it seems that you are expecting to not be returning here next year. I pray that the Sox brass will make you a fair offer for your last year. I would love to have you retire as a member of the Red Sox. And I can’t even imagine you not being there in April for for the Opening Day ring ceremony.
Besides, unless it’s off to AZ for you and your family, why would you want to move for only one year and then retire and move again?
**If Theo and ownership read this, please consider (as I am sure you are), that this is only for 1 year. This man has made such a difference to our team and is deserving of a fair contract and to finish his career where it began.**
I am always sad to see this time of year come anyway, because I spend my spring and summer days and nights following Sox games, and I have withdrawals. Not to mention that the time of year is dark, cold and dreary anyway. But I will be especially saddened if you go elsewhere and we won’t have your honest and inspiring words to look forward to hearing again next year!
Whatever your decision, if you pray about it, and the Lord leads you to it, than you know it is the right decision. God bless you, Shonda and the rest of your family. Your sincerity is apparent just by the things you do for others.
Peace,
Jeanne
Curt,
I have been a baseball fan for a long time, and mainly because of you a Red Sox Fan since 2003 and thats been a great ride to and one I’ll stay on! Thanks!
Just wanted to say thanks for all the memories, from that “mohawk and dye job” and the towel over your face in Philly, to this blog, you have left us with alot of great memories!
Also, I could be wrong but I seem to remember reading somewhere at the beginning of the year your wife mentioning that your ” numbers” might not get you into the Hall Of Fame which was why you pitched another year. So when I saw Sports Illustrated promotiong your now EXCELLENT chances due to your post season brilliance I thought about that comment!
You are a Hall a Famer in my book and have been for a long time. I sure hope to see you in Boston next year!! Enjoy the championship and the off season with your family!
Thank you for not including the Yankees on your list. I would hate to see the Yankees lose every five games when you pitched. Please re-sign with Boston so that I can watch the Yankees pound you again next season. Again, THANK YOU for not infecting the Yankees pitching staff.
Dear Curt,
I have to believe that the Red Sox ownership group and baseball management staff understands your significance to the team and especially to the bullpen. The young and developing pitchers on the Red Sox roster are going to need the benefit of not only experience, but wisdom – which is something you’ve clearly provided to the pitching staff throughout this season.
They’re all smart guys in that front office and it was especially tough losing some of our favorite players from the 2004 team to free agency, but now in 2007, here we are again.
I can only hope that those wise men understand that the real Zen of Baseball is about more than just winning championships year after year – the game needs its heroes (and villains), and in my view it would be the right thing to do to allow you finish your career with the Red Sox after all you’ve given them.
Let’s just hope they have the wisdom to find a place for you in 2008.
nina aoki
Curt - you are forever a part of the heart and soul of the Sox. We, the Red Sox Nation, want you here…with us, where you belong! Congratulations on winning another World Series!
Curt - you are forever a part of the heart and soul of the Sox. We want you here…with us, where you belong! Congratulations on winning another World Series! And thank you for all the wonderful work you have done for ALS!
Hey Curt,
Ya know, I remember during the 2001 season getting in a huge, heated argument with my best friend over who I would rather have in the playoffs, who I would rather have pitch in a clutch situation, who I’d rather see in Games 1, 4 and 7 of a World Series. He insisted Randy Johnson. I said you. Obviously you are both great pitchers, first ballot Hall of Famers. But my reasoning for choosing you was simple. Because I believed you had more heart, and wanted to win more. That you cared more and would do whatever it took to get the ultimate prize. Just so you know, I’m not trying to kiss your ass, I actually have a point, and I vividly remember the conversation walking down the street in Albany, California on the way to an A’s game, in the 3 weeks we were visiting. My point is simple. You have always played with heart, and fought for what you wanted most. Do the same here. Act with your heart, not with your head. Acting with your heart will make your decision simple, cause you’ll fight for what you really want. Acting with your head may lead you to what you think is the right decision, but may ultimately make you miserable.
Furthermore, I want to congratulate you on a World Series Championship. It was wonderful seeing it happen. I was there supporting you guys in Game 7 in Boston and Game 4 in Colorado. I was so happy to see you and the Red Sox win. Plus, getting to see Papelbon do the riverdance after Game 7, may have been a top 5 greatest moment of my life.
Lastly, thanks for always proving my argument right, in 2001, 2004 and now. Always at your best when it matters the most.
This question isn’t about you: If Wakefield leaves, do you think the Sox should resign Mirabelli?
By the way, I do agree that you’ve been fantastic - for the team and for Boston.
Curt, just a quick note (as a parent) -
Cleveland schools are awful.
I’ve been a Red Sox fan since that magical summer of 1967. I’ve endured the unendurable (78/86/03) and I am absolutely,positively convinced that the Red Sox should bring Curt back for one more year.
Why ? How about loyalty to a guy who helped bring a warrior mentality to the Sox, not to mention 2 World Championships ? Is one year REALLY that much ? Look at the time and money spent on Edgar Renteria. I bet the Sox make a gazillion $ from souvenir sales for the WS triumph-how about spending a little to show that loyalty goes both ways ?
Congratualtions for making 16 million people happy in the New England region. I have been in Virginia for 26 years and still travel to see the Red Sox once or twice a summer. I hope to run into you some day at the MMP headquarters in Maryland. BTW, I am the guy who nagged them endlessly back in 04 to put your RS picture on the website.
God has a reason for everything. Thank you for bringing happiness to to my family and my lives.
I know you’ll do great wherever you go - But the ultimate would be for you to stay here in Boston and give us another Series before you retire a hero and become the best pitching coach the Red Sox have ever had. I know that is big shoes to fill but who else but you could do that??? Enjoy the off-season and rest up for next year. Don’t go to the Yankees, they are not going anywhere.
Did any players take up Jordan’s furniture on the promotion??
Curt,
I was surprised to see that you filed free agency so quickly. I saw some footage of the parade yesterday and I would have loved to have been there. South Dakota is pretty far from Boston though. People ask me how I can be a RedSox fan since I am from South Dakota and my response is that the RedSox are in my blood. I am still hoping and praying that are you are still with us next year. I would hate to see you play somewhere else but would still follow you. I am just glad that the Yankee’s are not on your list.
I think you are a class act and an all around great guy. Like many others on our team. I would name them but would not want to leave anybody out. We have a great group of guys playing for us. I also think that Tito is amazing. In 2004 I found out that South Dakota has a Tito connection and that made me even more proud.
Best of luck to you in the future. Wherever that may lead you.
Hey, Shill. This is what continues to baffle folks like me. You make it abundantly clear you’d like to play one more year in Beantown and then retire. You’d like to be where you’d have a chance at another post season. You wax poetic on the team and staff at the Sox. It’s fact that with Sox veterans and young talent all the pieces are in place for another run at a championship. There is not another town in the country that loves and supports its team like Boston, and all of New England, for that matter. So what is the obstacle to signing a new one year deal? You have more money and fame than you’ll ever need in twenty lifetimes. So what’s the problem? One can only conclude it is the money. And one could then conclude if the Phillies, where you’re still a cult hero, offer you $15.00 dollars more than the Sox, you’ll bolt down I-95 for Philadelphia. And this is what bothers me. It really doesn’t come down to team loyalty or a team dynamic that sets up for another great season, your last, as there’s not another franchise more prepared to repeat. It’s going to come down to who puts the most money on the table. We want you back for your swan song, Curt. But please, be honest with us. It’s all about the money. jraw in Wilmington, NC (was at game two in Fenway for your gem in ‘04 against the Cardinals, an unforgettable experience)
I am hoping that the Sox sign you for one more year.
You are fantastic in the post season, and still good in the regular season. Whatever happens mister Schilling, I just wanted to say, Thank you for everything and I wish you the best of luck.
Obviously your priorities yesterday were post first and parade/ celebrate second. Would have been better to wait a day or so on this post
Please stay in Boston, or even head over to the NL. For the sake of all of us in Cleveland… anywhere but here.
You ARE Red Sox Nation. We’re rooting and praying for you.
If you have to leave us, pick San Diego, so we can come see you play after our Marine comes home from the Sandbox.
PS Thanks for your support for “Strikeouts for Troops”
God Bless
Good luck Curt, would really love to see you wrap it up here in Boston though. You’ve been amazing and after reading all the comments so far, I’m not the only one that wants to see you stick around. THANK YOU for everything you’ve done for us Sox fans!!
i hope u dont bring ur ketchup sock to the Mets. we dont want u here.
Curt,
You’re a class act. I live in Westwood and love to see the signs posted for you along your route to Fenway. I imagine you reading those and really appreciating them…..like in 2004 when you said that you left your house thinking that you were to spent to get back on the mound, but by the time you got to Fenway you were pumped up and ready to pitch. You said the encouragement from those signs did it for you. I lost one of my sweetest friends last year to ALS. As a life long die hard Sox fan she loved you. After she was diagnosed, your inspiration and dedication to the awful disease helped her cope. She reveled in meeting you. We all felt the excitement with her! We will always suport your cause in her name, Jere Kane, wherever you go, but I hope you stay here. Thanks for all you do on the team and in the world with your generous spirit and drive!
Margaret Donabed
Curt,
Thanks for changing the lives for so many New Englanders. Im 40 years old and Red Sox history in my family goes as far back as my Grandparents, who, along with my dad never lived to see a World series championship.
When 2004’s championship occured my family actually brought every championship piece of merchandise they could carry to the cemetery and left it at my family’s grave side. The Red Sox have been everything to my family and to many more throughout this area. Your great talent and professionalism brought us two in three years. You will forever be talked about in this area for what was accomplished. Thank You.
We all hope and pray your able to stay in Boston for your last season and retire in a Red Sox uniform, if not good luck and thanks for giving us what many generations waited for and were never able to experience. Jeff
Curt:
I have been a Red Sox fan for 41 years, and in my opinion the single event that changed the direction and tone of the franchise more than any other, was when you agreed to the trade over Thanksgiving of 2003. You were the first person I can remember who REALLY put it on the line that you were coming to win a world championship and that you were even willing to reflect that in your contract. From that point it just felt like a different team. 4 years later it is clear what you and the team have accomplished and how the Sox are now playing in an entirely new world. None of this would have happened without you. You have contributed in countless ways, not the least of which being your 3 wins in the playoffs this year (because sometimes I feel like that is getting lost in the discussion of your future). I honestly think that as decent people it borders on immoral that you would not be signed under fair terms to finish your career here. And I would feel that way even if you were not going to be a valuable contributor, because you have earned it, but the reality is that I am convinced that you will be (we all know you can never have enough pitching and that the law of averages would tell you that all of the young pitchers will not be ready at once). It is also unfair and disingenuous for people to lump you in with Pedro and Damon and Lowe and others and the decisions to let them leave. Each of them was looking for long term deals, and had characters like Scott Boras involved. You are basically looking for a one year deal (I think there should be an option f