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| Done. | 11.06.07 at 1:25 pm ET |
The Sox will issue an official announcement at some point today, but Theo said it was ok to post here so I am. We agreed to a 1 year contract late last night. Today was the MRI, which I passed.
Still trying to soak it all in.
The deal looks like this.
$8 million in guaranteed base salary
$2 million in bonuses for 6 seperate weigh ins.
I inserted the weigh in clause in the 2nd round of offers, counter offers. Given the mistakes I made last winter and into Spring Training I needed to show them I recognized that, and understood the importance of it. Being overweight and out of shape are two different things. I also was completely broad sided by the fact that your body doesn’t act/react the same way as you get older. Even after being told that for the first 39 years of my life. Now I can’t get on Dougie anymore, which sucks, and I am sure the clause will add 15-100 more jokes to Tito’s Schilling joke book.
$3 million in IP incentives based on IP totals.
$1 million for receiving a Cy Young vote, any vote.
Some miscellaneous things were agreed upon as addendums as well.
Any discussions about this will focus on many points, that will miss the point. Did I ‘leave’ money on the table, yes. Could I have gotten another year? I think so. In talking with my advisor Ed Hayes, assessing the market place and current free agent crop as well as existing contracts. Looking at the teams that called, my best guess would be around 14-15 million for a 1 year deal with the potential to get 25-30 for a two year deal. Shonda and I were very clear on this from the outset, we wanted no more than a year. We wanted to stay here. So while there will be points of debate, they’ll all miss the point. We got EXACTLY what we wanted, and then some. This is where we want our career to come to a close. This city, this team. This is where we want to retire, raise our kids, and walk away. We got it, all of it, and more. Did I get too little? Hell I would argue that one of the top 3 pitchers of all time just signed a 10 million dollar deal. Scott Boras could argue that one of his clients is certainly worth more than Maddux, I can’t. Actually he would be arguing that one of his clients is worth more than another of his clients right?
Bottom line is Mr Henry, Mr Werner, Mr Lucchino, Theo, Tito and John wanted me to come back, and I wanted to be back. So it’s all good. Saying it’s not ‘about the money” is a lie too. Both sides have a price, at some number I was not a viable option for the Red Sox, and at another number the Sox might have become a non-contender to us, but we both wanted this to happen and it did. Contrary to what some ‘insiders’ think they know, they don’t. Theo and I have an enormously respectful and friendly relationship and the same can be said for all three owners. As far as Tito goes, well I have too much dirt on him to ever worry about him selling out on me…..
I’d also like to say thank you to Ed Wade, Drayton McLane, Josh Byrnes, Bill Giles and the other GMs and owners I spoke with. The fans of St Louis were incredibly graceful and respectful in wanting me to come there. I didn’t get to truly experience the recruiting process of becoming a full fledged free agent, but I think that was for the better. It was also nice to talk with Ed again and know that we both harbor zero ill will about anything said or done over the last decade. The phans in Philly at the ALS tournament yesterday were also very respectful and considerate and it was nice to see that passion on display again. While I think many of those options would have provided a fun and exciting final season, in our heart of hearts Shonda and I knew that to go anywhere else would be leaving home, and I couldn’t bring myself to make that happen.
Theo and I spoke early in the week about wanting to complete this before the exclusive period ended, and the GM meetings began, because we both thought there could be a scenario popping up that might make this less desirable. He has to run this team, and I needed to do what was best and right for my family. Allowing external influences to change our opinions of each other might have been an unavoidable strain neither side wanted.
I’ve already heard from Josh and Wake, and am excited to know that my last year in the game will be with a team that has another legitimate chance to win the World Series. Also, the thought of being able to be teammates with this incredible group, for a final run is pretty damn cool.
For any media that’s looking for comments, I will be attending this event in Springfield this evening
The Survivors Calendar Launch Party
Wilbraham Country Club
859 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Now the only thing that’s left is this…
SIGN MIKE LOWELL!!!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:30 pm
Great to have you back … off to the gym with you
SIGN MIKE LOWELL!!!!! (Ditto)
November 6th, 2007 at 1:30 pm
Congrats!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:30 pm
Curt,
Congrats, you are a man of character and quite a pitcher. I am not surprised that you have chosen this path. I will never forget what you have done for Red Sox Nation. I pray you and your family enjoy your future in New England. You do have my vote when you run for office; I do not see you backing down from anyone or avoiding tough issues!
Very Respectfully,
Hawk
November 6th, 2007 at 1:32 pm
Curt
That is great to hear. It is gonna be great to see you on the mound in Fenway wearing that Red Sox number 38 jersey. I wish you the best of luck in the upcoming season and hope you earn all of those incentives.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:33 pm
Congratualtions.
My best to you, your family and the rest of the RS organization.
(Re-sign Mike Lowell, Theo.)
Onward.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:33 pm
The Yankees will ink Lowell, no question. As for your recent re-signing, congrats and good luck. You’ll need it at your age.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:33 pm
This is fantastic news!! Red Sox Nation is lucky to keep you and your family here in Boston.
Wishing you all the best! Thanks for proving that there really are athletes out there who think of things besides the bottom dollar.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:34 pm
Absolutely glad to have you back to finish out your career with the Red Sox. I’m as excited as I was four years ago at Thanksgiving.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:34 pm
Glad to hear you are back! It is refreshing to hear an athlete mean what he says at the beginning and remain unwavering throughout. You are a touch of class.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:35 pm
Curt,
Congrats!!!!!
Whew, we all were sweating on this.
Glad it worked out for all involved. It will be so great to see you end here at Red Sox Nation. We all are lucky. I actually look forward to all games now, since 2004, when we all got away from “I can’t look, they are going to screw it up somehow” to “We can do anything, we will win again!”
Looking forward to seeing you all play damned good ball in 2008.
Good luck to all you guys. Maine loves you all.
GO SOX!
Deb
PS Sign Mike Lowell!!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:36 pm
Congrats on the deal. You will retire a RS!
Bring another WS championship to us!
Best wishes!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:36 pm
happy days are here again…
November 6th, 2007 at 1:36 pm
Congrats Curt!
Can’t say it enough: SIGN MIKE LOWELL!
To think some thought he was just excess baggage on the Beckett trade!
WHAT ARE THEY, NUTS!
Sincerely,
Member of the “KEEP THE A-BOMB OUT OF BEANTOWN!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:37 pm
Glad to hear we get to watch you pitch in a Boston uniform one more season. I suppose the next question is will there be a B on your hat on your Hall of Fame statue?
November 6th, 2007 at 1:37 pm
Awesome. I’m already excited about the 2008 season…looking to be a team just as solid as 2007.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:37 pm
Good news Curt, glad to have you back for another year.
Good luck with the offseason training.
Hopefully a decision on Lowell staying comes in soon as well
Russ
November 6th, 2007 at 1:37 pm
So your not hispanic afterall
(the whole respect me with more money…..nevermind)
Great to have you back!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:38 pm
Curt,
You earned it! Stay away from that no good Meter. He sucks!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:38 pm
Congratulations Curt. I agree, get Mikey Lowell a contract.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:39 pm
Welcome back! I’m glad you decided to end your career in Boston.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:39 pm
Schill;
Glad to hear you are staying with the Red Sox.
RESIGN LOWELL!!!
Red Sox Nation doesn’t need A-Rod!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:39 pm
HEY, GOOD LUCK CURT , ALL I CAN SAY IS THAT SANTA CAME EARLY THIS YEAR FOR RED SOX NATION!
**NOW GET LOWELL BEFORE ANYONE ELSE DOES!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:39 pm
Curt,
Best news I have heard today. God Bless you and your family and glad your staying in the neighborhood!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
Congrats Curt!!! So happy to have you back. Happy for you and for your family. A welcome part of the Sox and a welcome part of New England.
Now…lets get Mikey Lowell!!
Take that 4 Sale sign off the house now!
How many more days until spring training??
Sharon in NH
November 6th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
Congratulations, Mr. Schilling. As a fan, I’m glad you’re going to give the Sox one more year and another chance at a World Series. I’m also glad that you’re going to retire here and wear the Sox uniform when you’re inducted. As a community member, I’m glad you and Mrs. Schilling are sticking around - you are great role models.
And, of course…SIGN LOWELL!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
Good to have you back. I hope the house didn’t sell. (Check P&G for suggestions on the weight incentive.)
November 6th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
Curt
I am a big fan and hearing that you are going to be with the Sox for one more year is great news. I have always said that it takes a special ball player to play in this town, and Curt, I feel that you truly get what it means to play in Boston.
Congratulations.
Charlie
PS I will vote for you for cy young next year.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
OH YES!!!!!!!!!
One more season with the Red Sox Nation behind you, eh? We’re looking forward to it even more than you!
Welcome back Chief!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:42 pm
SOOOO glad to hear this. Couldn’t be happier. You truly are a man of class and someone I want my son to continue rooting for on our team.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:42 pm
Now, *that* is great news for a cold, rainy fall day, Curt!
Congrats. I’m happy for you and your family, and I’m happy for the Nation, too. You deserve one more trip through the league with a Red Sox cap on your head.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. I so vividly remember the day after Thanksgiving 2003, when I was headed into a Celtics game, news of your Red Sox deal broke, and some loud, happy fan yelled back into the crowd “WE GOT SCHIL-LING …!”
The applause, hoots and hollers were deafening. Thanksgiving, indeed.
And now we still got Schilling.
Well, all right!
best,
Tom
November 6th, 2007 at 1:42 pm
Congrats
This site is a great way for you to communicate to the fans.
Glad to here that you are back for one more year
AND I AGREE!!!!
SIGN MIKE LOWELL!!!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:42 pm
Schill,
Great that you are back…Hopefully yoou and your teammates will continue the great tradition of the Red Sox…and yes…I agree, Sign Mike Lowell…..
November 6th, 2007 at 1:43 pm
What a happy ending (not quite, you still have to go win 20 games next year!). You did leave some money on the table, but it’s refreshing to see that this was not ALL about the money.
You are already in the top tier of Red Sox greats for making the Red Sox winners, both through your performances and your attitude. Choosing the team, the region, and your legacy over top dollar will just inch you up that much higher.
And I’ve found your blog posts during the brief postseason fascinating. I am of the opinion that you would be well served by filtering what you say a bit (that’s my gently way of saying you talk to much), but for every foot-in-mouth moment you also have provided a lot of insight to us fans about the game (and the business).
November 6th, 2007 at 1:43 pm
Curt, I speak for all sox fans when I say, Congrads on the deal…You’ve been a huge factor to this team both on the field, how you’ve mentored younger players, and off the field in our community. It would have been a very depressing thought to see all that lost to any other city than ours…
November 6th, 2007 at 1:43 pm
House still on the market???
November 6th, 2007 at 1:43 pm
Attaboy. Now Theo and the other parts need to get everyone back together to see how much fun a back to back run can be….
November 6th, 2007 at 1:43 pm
Welcome back Schill! Now lets work on getting you in the Hall.. as a SOCK!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:44 pm
Thanks Curt - very pleased you are coming back. Besides… you’d have missed us wicked smaht Boston sports fans if you’d left!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:44 pm
Glad you’re staying, Curt!
Have to add my thoughts with everyone else’s…RE-SIGN LOWELL!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:44 pm
Curt,
Pitching is what is important to us RS fans. Family has to be the number one item to you. Both have been reached and now we nedd Mike Lowel.
Even if you both do not have the year you had this season the leadership is worth every penny. Remember it’s not about the money!!
It’s about the rings!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:44 pm
YESSSS!!!!
Curt, glad to hear that you will be staying in MA and finishing your illustrious career with the Red Sox. Now if we can only get you in the Senate once your baseball career is over. Maybe you could run against that booze-ridden murderer Kennedy?
Anyway, I’m just glad I don’t have to find a new favorite player on the Red Sox. Oh, and #6, don’t be pissy just because your beloved Yankees got their asses kicked.
Congrats Curt!!!
-Lugh
PS: Remember the PvPers in your game! We’re not all bad!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:44 pm
This is AWESOME news, Curt! It’s good to know that you’re spending your last year in the league right where you belong…with all of us in Red Sox Nation.
I hope you and your family have a happy and healthy holiday season…
~WS~
November 6th, 2007 at 1:44 pm
Outstanding Curt, I can’t tell you how happy I was to hear this on the radio today. Congratulations to you and the organization .. next step sign Mike Lowell, after that 2008 World Series!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:45 pm
You never left, so I won’t say welcome back. I will say “Well done”. It’s nice to see a pro athlete do business with such class.
O yeah…I agree….Re-sign Lowell!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:45 pm
Congrats on the new contract! It’s pretty cool that you get to play your final year where you really wanted to play.
And I agree…resign Mike Lowell. Let’s go get another WS!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:45 pm
Welcome Back Curt! Made my day!
Oh and….Resign Lowell!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:46 pm
WOW! A professional athlete who conducts himself in an ethical and professional manor and a team that respects him for it.
Congrats Curt and good job Red Sox.
People seem to forget that negotiation isn’t about one side winning and one side losing. It is about both sides getting what they need at a price they can live with.
Let’s hope with a repeat with Mike Lowell.
All the best to you!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:46 pm
Curt- When I was at Game 2 of the World Series, I was telling everyone that I’d probably seen your last game as a Red Sox. I thought the moment that you walked off the mound was one of the best sports moments I have had the chance to experience live. Needless to say, I’m more than thrilled to be wrong.
I appreciated your insights into the free agent process, especially the 2003 letter from the Sox, but what I admire more is your unwavering allegiance to your word, something that I’ve grown accustomed to in reading your blog this year. In March, you were candid about what it would take the deal to get done, and you have kept that, as well as what’s best for your family in mind the whole time. Luckily, it seems it was a win-win situation for the Sox and for the fans of Red Sox Nation as well.
I think that your impact on the 2008 team, even more than your individual win-loss record, will be the mentoring you can provide for Daisuke, Clay, Lester, etc. I think that it is great that pitching icons like you and Maddux can be such mentors for the games newest pitchers.
Congratulations for such a speedy contract resolution. Enjoy the holidays and the offseason with your family.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:46 pm
Curt-
So glad to hear that you will be back in 08′ to finish out what has been argueably a Hall of Fame career. The flood of emotions that I felt in 04″ have all resurfaced. All I can say is thank you from the bottom of my heart what you brought to our team and our city (and making my Grandfather eat crow- God rest his soul, lol, that the Sox would never win the big one- now it’s happened twice). The importance of your presence, along with the other veterans (Beckett, Wake, Timlin) to help along a young pitching staff that (has not only accomplished great things this year but) is destined for more great things upon the horizon.
Some wisdom you may already know: chill on the night eating, carrot and celery sticks are great, don’t eat out of boredom and even if you’re not motivated, get in your work out.
Thank you for the early Christmas present!
Let’s sign Lowell!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:46 pm
Curt, I might never be able to reiterate this enough - thank you. It’s great to see there are still great athletes who will take a reasonable pay cut in order to keep playing for the love of the team.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:46 pm
That’s great news! I’m psyched that you’ll be closing your career in Boston.
I still remember the commercial you had about going to Boston to break an 86 year old curse. How prophetic!
I’ll never forget your playoff heroics. Boston fans have a lot to thank you for!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Curt,
You have earned it. I remember when the Red Sox signed you in 2004. It was like having John Wayne arriving . I was happy with one World Series but you helped us win two. I’m not ashamed t admit that I had tears in my eyes when I watched you walk off the mound this year for what I thought was the last time. I’m 44 years old. But men can cry. I have met some of my idols but I have never met you. I hope sometime I can. I want my children to see what a true hero looks like. God has blessed you and your message is heard in this family.
Thank You.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:48 pm
Congratualtions Curt, here’s to another excellent season with the greatest baseball team in the world. Cheers mate.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:48 pm
Mazel Tov! Looking forward to another year.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:49 pm
Good to have you back, Schill! Let’s sign Mikey Lowell and head to Fort Myers (after all you guys get a little break, of course)! Personally, I am very excited for next season–let’s get it on!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:49 pm
Great news for all of us! Congratulations!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:49 pm
Curt,
It’s great to have you back in a Red Sox uniform. It must be nice to have your career come full circle. You and the rest of the organization have done a lot for this region of the country with giving us fans two World Series victories in the last 4 seasons. Thank you for not being all about the money, I’m sure you probably could have received more guaranteed money from another club, but you kept to your word and said you wanted to retire with the Sox. Congrats on the new contract and the World Series win and good luck for next season!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:49 pm
Schill, I’m in tears reading this.
Lifelong Sox fan…saw Yaz, Tony C and Pudge play here.
In my opinion, a guy who went to the lengths that you did in 2004 to help win us our first Chamionship in 86 years, deserves to retire as a Red Sox. In addition, fans like myself
who love this team unconditionally, deserve the honor of helping you celebrate when you finally hang up your cleats.
Congrats to you and your family and to all of Red Sox Nation.
AND YES!!!! Resign Lowell!!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:49 pm
congrats i fyou want to play next year call the phillies
November 6th, 2007 at 1:49 pm
Curt,
You have earned it. I remember when the Red Sox signed you in 2004. It was like having John Wayne arriving . I was happy with one World Series but you helped us win two. I’m not ashamed to admit that I had tears in my eyes when I watched you walk off the mound this year for what I thought was the last time. I’m 44 years old. But men can cry. I have met some of my idols but I have never met you. I hope sometime I can. I want my children to see what a true hero looks like. God has blessed you and your message is heard in this family.
Thank You.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:49 pm
Mr. Schilling,
It is not only a pleasure but an honor to see you back on board with the Red Sox for your final season. It is great to see an athlete who has had such a strong career as yours still in the game for the pure enjoyment of playing and the spirit of competition. I believe that is why you are staying in the game in Boston!
I look forward to seeing you in action again next season, in pursuit of a third championship in 5 years.
Best of health and happiness in the holiday season to you, Shonda, and the family!
Thank you for coming back! God Bless!
Matt Smith
November 6th, 2007 at 1:50 pm
Red Sox Nation rejoices!
I’m wondering, how much money over the years do you think you have saved or lost by working without an agent? I regard that as a tremendous accomplishment. Of course it’s hard to put a dollar value on the three championships, about which most agents wouldn’t give a hoot.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:50 pm
curt i am so happy!! welcome back
-Lauren
November 6th, 2007 at 1:50 pm
Curt:
Thanks for being consistently being a man and athlete of honor and integrity. The Red Sox have been part of my life since my first breath (I had no choice!! but am happy for it) and you have helped to make this a classy organization that is set up for success for years to come. I’m so glad you’re back with us. We’ll all have fun watching your final season and be able to celebrate with you as you retire. Now, that’s a great story. So, on to win again! Welcome back! And teach those young ones, they have great potential.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:50 pm
Glad to have the Big Schill back on the hill next year!!!! Congrats!
Xyco
November 6th, 2007 at 1:51 pm
Curt,
Congratulations from NH! This signing goes beyond baseballs and bats. Having you adopt New England as your home is great and your affiliation with ALS will contiinue to provide attention and money for the cure. GO SOX………back to back in 2008. And as far as Mike Lowell goes………Theo, you just saved a ton of dough on Curt…….give it to Mike.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:52 pm
This is great news Curt! A classic American straight shooter all the way. The Kids will have a great role model for another year! To change your pitching style mid year and come out of it dominant in the post season is amazing. Great Job and thanks for everything you have done for Redsox nation.
Need another ring though
November 6th, 2007 at 1:52 pm
You are annoying! Thank God you are not coming to Philly!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:52 pm
Thank you, Curt. You are a man of your word, and it will be an awesome upcoming year!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:53 pm
Curt,
Any campaigning, public or private, you are able to do to get Lowell back and keep ARod away will be much appreciated.
I like the looks of the Sox rotation next year as I am sure you do, as well.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:54 pm
Curt,
I have to say I am extremely happy you are staying with us. We had the pleasure of meeting you in Florida right before your 1st spring training with the Sox when you signed an autograph for my daughter outside of the complex. From that moment on I knew Boston had something special and we look forward to having you finish your career here. Let’s make it #3 during your time here.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:54 pm
This is the best news today curt! You are a first class guy(your comments on SoSH are well known) and i wish you are a RED Sox till your career end . My dreams come true. Thank you and Theo for this deal!!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:54 pm
Schilling, Congratulations! Pitching depth wins championships and I think that you are part of that puzzle. I hope that you can stay in shape so that you will be effective all season. Do your side bends and sit ups and teach Buchholz, Lester, Dice K, Masterson, and Bard how to pitch and pay attention to details.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:56 pm
Curt
Just wanted to say welcome back, your a huge part of this team, this town, and ofcourse redsox nation, keep up the good work and bring us home another world series win!
resign Lowell!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:56 pm
I’m overjoyed to hear that you are coming back next year, to be honest I really couldn’t see you in any other uniform but boston. I think to say that it is refreshing to see an athlete stick to his guns on where he wants to be is an under statement. Over the course of the past 4 years you have become a core member and a much loved person for all your work with ALS. I tip my cap to you and your family for everything. All the best to you and your family. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
- Come on Theo re-sign Lowell ( I am on the edge of my seat waiting as about a million other people are ).
November 6th, 2007 at 1:57 pm
Outstanding!! Very good news!!
It is so frickin nice to see players and teams just do what they all know is the right thing to do. Very classy on your part!!
Like you said… Bringing back Mike Lowell will be huge, hope that happens as well.
Its gonna be another great season… and I’m still enjoying the last. Thanks to you and the whole team!!
Cant wait for spring training…
November 6th, 2007 at 1:59 pm
Well Curt good luck to you. This 39 year old still plays lots of ice hockey and baseball albeit not as efficiently as when I was 29 but hey …. it is about the sport when all is said and done.
Play as long as you can and have fun, as a fan I will enjoy watching. And yes keeping the extra weight off is difficult at our age but doable.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:59 pm
Curt,
Although I am a life-long Padres fan, I’m also a big Curt Schilling fan. My dog is named Gwynn, but if I ever get another he might have to be named Schill. Anyway, I’m glad to hear that your back in Boston for your final year! I have loved your commitment to community and especially your work with ALS. I wanted to take the time to say “Thank You” for your continued work with ALS. Being someone with a form of Muscular Dystrophy, I love to hear about people of influence such as yourself, committing so much to a cause. Your efforts go a long way, not just monetarily speaking, but emotionally for people like myself who root for you each and every start because of what you stand for. Thank you for doing your part to fight ALS and your efforts go a lot farther than you may know. You give me and thousands of others with neuromuscular diseases hope that maybe someday there will be a cure for ALS and the 39 other forms of neuromuscular diseases. Good Luck in ‘08 and I’ll be in your corner for every start.
Craig
November 6th, 2007 at 1:59 pm
Awesome! See you next year!
November 6th, 2007 at 1:59 pm
Man. Great news.
A fan never wants to follow up a great season for his favorite team by seeing his favorite players booted out the door (or chasing someone else’s money out of it, for that matter). For all the happiness the World Series Championship brought to us this season, watching you leave would have been a bitter draught.
You’ve been a credit to your team, your fans and this region ever since you put on the uniform. You’ve played no small part in bringing two championship trophies to Boston after many years of failure. I’ll be proud to see you step onto that Fenway mound one more season, regardless of next year’s outcome.
Thanks to you, your family and the Red Sox management and ownership for getting this done for the team and its fans. It means a lot to all of us.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:59 pm
Curt,
This is great news. Now take your house off the market, nothings moving anyway. LOL. Now of course I have to bring my son to another one of your starts next year. Hope we can see #38 raised in right field eventually. You deserve it.
Good luck next year.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:00 pm
Great to hear The Red Sox did the right thing and are bringing You back to take Your final Bow. Now win one more and Your probably heading to The Hall Of Fame!!!! Congrates Curt
November 6th, 2007 at 2:01 pm
Just want to say I’m impressed and thanks for continuing to walk the walk. Just one more bad MFer left to sign for 2008.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:01 pm
Curt…
Thanks for getting this done. You’ve been a big part of the Sox over the last few years. It’ll be great to have finish your career in Boston. You are going to finish here, right? Right? Curt?
November 6th, 2007 at 2:01 pm
Curt,
So excited to have you back!
I was traveling during the World Series and watched you throw 82 gutsy pitches over a live internet feed from Bethlehem! Truly one of my top ten fan moments as a lifetime Bostonian.
I respect your pursuit of excellence each time you pitch, your dedication to your teammates, your love of technology, your commitment to “gaming” with your kids while on the road, and your devotion to the Lord Jesus.
I also admire how you approach the business side of baseball. I am weary of the culture of spin fed by the media, sport agents, and so many others. Your candor with the fans is refreshing.
Here’s to the best year yet in 2008!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:02 pm
congrads curt, you have been nothing but good luck here. i wanted you to know that my dad donated his car to curt’s pitch the als charity. i specifically picked that out of about 10 charities. i hope you end up not moving and staying here at least seasonally. good luck in repeating!
by the way all champs deserve a chance to defend there title!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:02 pm
Welcome back!! Kudos to Theo and the Gang as well as Curt and the Family for making this happen. It just seems right. Now, sign
Lowell.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:03 pm
CURT
Thank you so much for coming back home!!! I can’t wait to watch you pitch next year.
YES LETS SIGN MIKE LOWELL, DOUG MIRABLIE
Thanks again
Signing off
Scotty Byrnes
November 6th, 2007 at 2:03 pm
Dear Mr. Schilling:
Not only am I very pleased that you will end your career as a member of the Red Sox, I am equally pleased that you don’t have to uproot your family because it really looked like your children did not want to move away in the recent Globe article. Take the house off the market, and hit the gym!
Now, in full agreement with all of the other postings, let’s hope Theo, et al can get it done for Mike Lowell.
Theo, if you are reading this……DON’T SIGN A-ROD!
Do you think that Mrs. Schilling would consider putting the t-shirts she had made (that all the wives wore at the rally)for up for sale for the Shade Foundation? They were awesome.
With best wishes to you and your family for a happy and healthy off season,
Linda52
November 6th, 2007 at 2:03 pm
Very happy to have you staying in Boston with our beloved Red Sox. Thanks for making it happen!
Kathleen McGilvray, LMT
November 6th, 2007 at 2:03 pm
great job curt i wish more baseball players were like you
November 6th, 2007 at 2:04 pm
I’m very impressed Schill. So rarely do we see it just come together in today’s sports/business world, that this is just impressive (and a couple of cheers to the Sox front office for getting this done, too).
Beckett
Schilling
Dice-K
Wake
Lester/Bucholz (platoon for arm strength)
That’s just phenomenal. Glad you’re back!
PS - Don’t know how much of the weigh-in incentives (and the drive to meet them) you want to make public, but I think that you could make a great online tracker and pair it with a charity version where people stick to your same in-season timetable, but with their own personal goals (people can sponsor them for meeting or exceeding their goals). I see the marketing guys drooling over the Red Sox Nation version of the Biggest Loser.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:04 pm
As I’ve said before - we truly appreciate your enthusiasm of finishing your career in Boston. It means a ton to us.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:04 pm
Welcome back! As a Massachusetts native, (born and raised,now in NY) It gives me great pleasure knowing the core of the staff will be back.
What are your thoughts about the remaining Sox FA’s? Id like to see Hinske & Kielty back. I know Clement is gone and pretty sure about Gagne too. Im 90% sure Dougie will be back to catch Wake,depending on his role.
Now if I can only get you to autograph this ball…
November 6th, 2007 at 2:05 pm
Being a 40-something man in roughly the same shape as you….it would be great if you posted on the blog your workout regimen and how you will be getting in shape.
I am forever trying to get in shape and seem to only get in shape when challenged by my friends and we all make non monetary or charity based wagers…
Even more intriguing would be to post a challenge maybe “Schilling’s Shape Up Challenge” where you would challenge other 40 something men to get in shape. It would be fun for all and might help things go smoother for you and for all who rise to the occassion.
Maybe proceeds to to your charities with the “winner” and their spouse and family having lunch or dinner or picnic or whatever with you and your family…say maybe at Spring Training….
Just a thought….
Thanks for a great season….
Boca Raton, Florida
boca-raton.com
November 6th, 2007 at 2:05 pm
Great news, get in shape, best of luck to you, the Sox and your family. Bring another title home!
From
Bosox fan in Germany
November 6th, 2007 at 2:06 pm
Thank you so much Curt and management for keeping Mr. Schilling with our team. I’d like to let the management know this: SIGN Mike Lowell, Now!
Curt, thanks for this season and I hope that you and your family will enjoy the off season.
Nate - Decatur, GA
November 6th, 2007 at 2:07 pm
Great news for one and all. Maybe we could have done without the goodbye letters to teammates and the newspaper articles explaining that, sigh, moving on is just ne of those things in the life of a ballplayer, but in the end, you and the Club demonstrated that you both meant what you said.
You (and your teammates, and the front office—including, to some degree, the last GM on the Yawkey/Harrington era)) have done so much to establish this team not simply as world champions, but as the best in baseball. Many times in the almost 50 years I have been religiously glued to this team I have felt we had a great team, but only this group—beginning the year you came over—has proven it, and the importance of your contributions can never be forgotten.
But there is something about retiring in a Red Sox uniform that adds to that, I think. It is something Roger Clemens will not have, nor Pedro Martinez, who both did so much for this team. Even Jim Lonborg, whose win over the Twins on the last day of the 1967 season led inexorably to your two championships in the same uniform, did not get to retire as a member of this team.
Yaz, Ted Williams (and John Havlicek, Bill Russell in another Boston uniform) had that honor and now you will, too. And in 2014, when we celebrate the tenth year of the first championship in more than a lifetime, you will be remembered for what you gave to the team that drafted you and to which you returned to seal the deal.
Congratulations to you and your family. I cannot wait for the season to begin again as you and the rest of the team try to do it yet again.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:07 pm
Oh, before I forget, RESIGN LOWELL!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:07 pm
It’s nice to see the Red Sox do something that not only makes sense for the team, but is a great thing for the fans. Congratulations Mr. Schilling. If anyone deserves it, you do. Thanks for being willing to negotiate with the Sox in the first place.
It is also noteworthy that you are one of Baseball’s true statesman. I wonder how many people are aware of the fact that you are one of the few who will still sign baseballs for kids.
My best to you and your family and thanks for wanting to stay a part of Red Sox Nation!!
God Bless.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:08 pm
Curt and family, this is really great news for you and your family and for the Red Sox Nation!
We were all pulling for you and now it is great to hear that you will be with the Boston Red Sox in the 2008 season and retire as a Boston Red Sox.
We thank you for what you have done on and off the field and for what you have brought to the Red Sox organization. I wish that there were more athletes like yourself through-out all sports. You are one of the great but rare ones and we are happy and blessed to have you in Boston.
Now that this is behind you, you can get some much needed relaxation time. We wish you the best of luck in 2008 and we are looking forward to seeing you when they say; “Play Ball!”.
Thank you for staying with us!
Now let’s try to sign up and keep Mike Lowell at the third base corner.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:09 pm
Curt,
Congratulations!
Thanks to you, Shonda, Theo & all for everything past & for doing the right thing for all … including the Nation.
God bless you
November 6th, 2007 at 2:11 pm
Good stuff.
Mike, your next, get it done.
PS. I have a Cy Young ballot- I can be bought- We can negotiate. But I would like it in Canadian dollars.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:12 pm
Curt,
I would like to thank you and your family for staying here in Boston. I have two very young sons who think the world of you. They have enjoyed so many wonderful moments watching you pitch and I have enjoyed playing ball with my kids after the games so they can pretend their you pitching in the World Series. Thank you for being honest about the money but NOT making it the ONLY thing. Congrats and maybe this year we can get tickets to see you in person. Congrats to you and the team and thanks for an amazing season and the promise of a great future.
THANKS…wally5150
November 6th, 2007 at 2:13 pm
Curt -
It is great to see you coming back. Thank you for putting your ego aside and the fact that you realize that there are more important things than money. I share you faith and I am sure the others on your team who share that bond with you are glad to see you back, there is nothing like having like minded brothers you can count on. Welcome back have a great offseason God Bless you and your family.
Lastly I am not one to gloat but I watched a certain pair from the Globe saying how the team did not want you back you and Theo were at odds and “you would not be back” ..blah blah blah..funny how things turn out
welcome back .
Mike B.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:13 pm
great to hear the ace is coming back
Woody
November 6th, 2007 at 2:13 pm
Shill! Great to know we will be fellow Medfieldians for at least another year. I have a deal for you… I will become a sports writer and ensure you a vote for Cy Young next year if you promise to split the Mil with me, 50/50… 60/40 if that seals the deal… but no less!
Check out this Heinz commercial out on youtube about you… produced by yours truly (on a $5 budget!)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=ilojzow85QE
November 6th, 2007 at 2:13 pm
True professional with a great heart.
Curt, You inspire us, every single day.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:15 pm
Sweet! Now lay off the doughnuts.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:18 pm
I’ve come to realize that Boston’s outdoor sports teams share phenomenal business operating principles. Both the Red Sox and the Patriots find players who are as good off the field as they are on it. On that score, the Schilling family has been a fabulous addition to Boston’s sports history. Congratulations to you for making Boston your final home, and to the entire Schilling family for all that you do and all that you represent.
Chris in New Hampshire
November 6th, 2007 at 2:21 pm
38 is back and 83 is not. Happy Days!
Seriously Curt, thank you for the last 4 years and here’s hoping your last ride sees you head toward the sunset with Ring #4.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:21 pm
Congrats Curt. I’m can foresee you putting up a 17-9 record, 3.82 ERA, and 201 innings in FY 08 and being in good position to earn $13-15 million in FY 09. Will they give you an extra million if you come to camp looking like Gabe Kapler?
What’s your feeling regarding the Hall of Fame? I would think you’re postseason numbers this year eliminate any doubt. If they are considering guys like Craig Biggio candidates for the HOF, than you should be a lock. There’s no comparison on who was more dominate or had a greater influence on the game during their career.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:21 pm
i am so f*ing happy!!!
RE-SIGN LOWELL!! RE-SIGN LOWELL!!
Thank you for exemplifiying the boston spirit, and showing the non-believers that boston is a GREAT place to be!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:25 pm
Excellent news, Curt. It’ll be great to see you take the pill for the Sox again in ‘08.
And I’ll add to the chorus: RE-SIGN LOWELL! RE-SIGN LOWELL! RE-SIGN LOWELL!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:29 pm
This is great news! Congrats to you, your family, and to Red Sox Nation. I hope it bodes well for Mike Lowell!
People wonder why the Sox have been doing so much better than the Yankees these past few years. I think in large part it’s because the Red Sox organization from top to bottom has a heart and a soul- and allows all of you to be individuals. No amount of money can buy that.
Thank you for your contributions in ‘04 and ‘07, the bloody sock, and for choosing to close out your career here so that we can tip our hats back to you.
p.s. How do I go about getting myself one of those weight clauses? I run 5 miles every other day for nothing. I’m such a schmuck!
NO-HITTER IN ‘08!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:30 pm
This is a great day for Red Sox nation. Not only is Curt a true leader, he has assisted in boosting this club to the new dynasty known as Red Sox nation. Looks like you have a solid contract and I hope your able to obtain every incentive. Great Job Curt and I look forward in seeing you in a red sox uniform again in the spring.
On another note: RE-SIGN LOWELL!!!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:30 pm
This is great news! Congrats to you, your family, and to Red Sox Nation. I hope it bodes well for Mike Lowell!
People wonder why the Sox have been doing so much better than the Yankees these past few years. I think in large part it’s because the Red Sox organization from top to bottom has a heart and a soul- and allows all of you to be individuals. No amount of money can buy that.
Thank you for your contributions in ‘04 and ‘07, the bloody sock, and for choosing to close out your career here so that we can tip our hats back to you.
p.s. How do I go about getting myself one of those weight clauses? I run 5 miles every other day for nothing. I’m such a schmuck!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:32 pm
Welcome back Curt! This is definitely where you belong and where you should retire. With what you did this post-season, I think you just punched your ticket to Cooperstown with the 1st ballet. No doubt you will be an integral part of bringing us our 3rd World Championship in 5 years (as will Mike Lowell)!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:34 pm
Finally someone to show the baseball world there is such a thing as loyalty. Congrats and may you win the CY Young, World Series and be the next Red Sox Pitcher to make it into the Hall of Fame.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:36 pm
Curt & Shonda
Very happy for you and your family. And for Red Sox fans. Best of luck.
Sign Lowell!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:38 pm
Hey Mr. Schilling,
Welcome home to both you and your family. I don’t care about contract terms. All I care about is that you will be wearing a Red Sox uniform in 2008. Thank you and best of luck in 2008.
Now lets work on Mr. Lowell
November 6th, 2007 at 2:44 pm
Curt: WELCOME BACK!!! Glad this happened before too much time went by. We never wanted to see you go!! I knew I liked Theo!
RE-SIGN LOWELL!!!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:49 pm
Curt-
everything I want to say has been said one hundred and fourteen times above me.
Glad you’re still here.
WHY NOT TWICE?
November 6th, 2007 at 2:49 pm
Curt, great news. Your influence on the young guys will be worth millions! Not to mention the pitching. Good Luck and God Bless!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:49 pm
Well done Curt! It’s nice to see a professional athlete actually involve some other factors into their decision making process other than money. Looking forward to seeing you pitch in Boston another year and hopefully staying here even longer.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:51 pm
winslow1191
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Congratulations, Curt. To, your family and us. You did it with class. I was seriously moved by your post. And stop talking about ‘08 being your last year. You’ll be a different and a better pitcher next season and you WILL be back in’09. I admire you for publicly witnessing to your faith. We need more athletes like you. God bless you and your family.
!!!!!!!!!!SIGN MIKE LOWELL!!!!!!!!!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:51 pm
Yay! This is excellent news. Thank you for coming back to us!
I will also echo: Re-sign Lowell! Re-sign Lowell!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:51 pm
Thanks for sharing all the news on the contract and of course for signing it
The only way that my day (or the off season) could get any better would be if….THE RED SOX WOULD RESIGN MIKE LOWELL!!!!!!
Just 3 short months until pitchers and caters report!!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:53 pm
Can’t tell you how happy I am that you will remain with the Sox and retire as a Boston Red Sox. I couldn’t even begin to picture you in the uniform of another team. I will be forever grateful to you for the 2004 championship and you will always remain in my heart. I am not ashamed to admit that I sat on my bed and cried like a baby at the conclusion of the final game. I, along with many other Sox fans, was afraid that I would go to my grave without seeing my beloved Sox attain a World Series Championship. NOW I HAVE SEEN TWO….CAN YOU BELIEVE IT! I look forward to 2008 with great anticipation. Thanks again Curt! Annacolora (first time blogger!)
November 6th, 2007 at 2:53 pm
Curt ,
on behalf of the 102nd security forces at otis air force base, thank you for everything you and the other 24 guys have done for fans of new england and all over the world. you need to come down and check out the place , its rich in history!. God Bless.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:53 pm
Yabbadabado !!!!!!!!!!! What a way to make my day !
November 6th, 2007 at 2:54 pm
Fantastic. When you become an adult fan, it’s difficult to maintain that excitement for the game that you had when you were a naive kid, especially when loyalty often seems to be only a trait of the fan. This is a refreshing change of pace displayed by both ownership and player. Thanks.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:55 pm
Good Job, you proved me wrong and I couldn’t be happier!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 2:55 pm
Fantastic news, thank you!!! I’ve been fortunate enough to see you in your early days with the Phils and now that I live in the Boston area, I’m looking forward to our fans being able to give you a fitting tribute at the end of your career (hopefully on duck boats again).
November 6th, 2007 at 2:55 pm
Awesome. This is great news. Now get to work on those six-pack washerboard style abs. Ha
November 6th, 2007 at 2:56 pm
I’ve always had a love/hate for you Curt, but I am very happy you will retire a Red Sox and hopefully go into the hall of fame as one. Not many players have embraced being a Red Sox the way you did and it made me so happy that you seemed to love and appreciate my beloved franchise as much as I and my fellow fans do. I just wish you hadn’t chosen to stump for Bush right after the 2004 win. You had to realize that a large portion of Sox fans would would be hurt and confused by your tainting our defining moment by aggressively supporting such a polarizing figure. I returned the Schilling jersey that I bought after the series, because of what you did. But you’ve done a great job here and I hope you continue to live your faith and not just use it as a smoke screen, like some presidents do.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:56 pm
Curt,
Don’t let posts by goldenduke get to you. Every need has an ego to feed. And he’s reaching for a conspiracy theory to fill his. The strikezone for both you and Carmona was consistently the same.
Question: After you complete your 2008 season in Boston, and given that you publicly mentioned not wanting to move your children away from their schools and friends right yet, have you considered going into coaching or front office work in the Sox org? Pawtucket to begin with? In other words, do you see your post-player years still involved with an MLB team, or in broadcast commentating such as Gwynn, or in developing youth organizations such as Ripken?
November 6th, 2007 at 2:56 pm
Im glad you get to stay.
This being said, its so !@$$!#$ stupid when guys like you or even Varitek make the “Re-Sign Lowell” sentiment public, so openly. Your job is to pitch, Theo and co. will get sure we field the best team possible so they know what they have to and they dont need to tolerate this kind of attitude. They know what Lowell represents to the team and they will surely offer him a contract accordingly.
Thats all.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:58 pm
Nuff Said McGreevy would be proud! Now lets just hope Theo is smart enough not to sign A-Fraud and bring Mikey Lowell back for the long haul and the repeat next year. Great players like you are why Sox Nation is as strong as ever. The new dynasty is upon us and there is nothing the Yanks or any team can do about it. BoSox all the Way!!
Tris Speaker
November 6th, 2007 at 2:58 pm
Great news for the Red Sox fans, when you win the Cy Young, pennant, and another World Series next year could you follow it up by running for the Senate? Bye Bye Teddy
November 6th, 2007 at 2:59 pm
This is fantastic! I had complete faith in the Sox that this would get done. We will re-sign Lowell, too. The evil empire will make a run at him, and drive up the cost, but I think the Nation’s leaders know how vital he is to this team. I know Schill can’t answer this right now, but I wonder, did the Sox give him any re-assurances about their commitment to Lowell to help entice Schill to stay?
Don’t care to see Mirabelli go anywhere either. Remember, Wake looked a little lost in ‘06 when Mirabelli was gone the first two months of the year.
November 6th, 2007 at 3:00 pm
I can’t wait for the Yanks to shell you! FUN TIMES INDEED!
November 6th, 2007 at 3:03 pm
Many congratulations to everyone involved in making this happen. It’s a win-win for all.
Curt you continue to inspire us all and set a shining example to the nation.
I echo everyones sentiments re: Mike Lowell - Theo if you are reading, get it done!
November 6th, 2007 at 3:04 pm
This is beyond awesome, Curt! I feel another World Series coming on…
Anyway, thanks for sharing your thoughts all season long and for being so forthright about the negotiations. Not many ballplayers would be brave enough to share this sort of information, but you’re special on the field and in your personal life. Congratulations to you, Shonda, your family, and to the Sox, of course!
Is there ANY WAY we can get MIKEY LOWELL back? I would be heartbroken if the MVP of the World Series (and probably of the 07 team) went elsewhere. Please use your pull, Curt (we know you have some :)) and do what you can.
And once again, congratulations! It’s wonderful to have you stay here, so you can retire as a Red Sox!!!
–Sue
November 6th, 2007 at 3:04 pm
Congratulations Curt! VERY glad you made this decision. I think it shows incredible maturity and wisdom to make a decision that actually makes you happy. Hopefully this sets you up for your eventual post-baseball playing life too. GREAT job.
Of course it would be interesting to get a better idea about what could have happened at the GM meetings to make this decision less desirable. Your comment is so vague it is possible to imagine almost anything. This could range from another player signing a contract that would put these negotiations in a different light, to another team making a larger offer to you, to members of the press (for example CHB — who is really a disgrace, btw) conducting a negative campaign, to a negative annoucement coming out about you (such as HGH — I would find that hard to believe), to A Rod saying he didn’t want to sign with the Sox because he is not a fan of yours (if so, a big thanks to you from Red Sox nation). It seems from your comment, that you and Theo had a specific scenario in mind — was wondering if you could shed light on your concerns.
Regardless, Congratulations. My family and I are really happy you will be playing with the Red Sox for the rest of your career.
Mark
November 6th, 2007 at 3:05 pm
Curt: I have to say I love you. Thank you for not being a schmuck like other free agents can be and for wearing your heart on your sleeve about Boston. I am so glad Theo didn’t take a stance about signing a pitcher over 40. You have meant so much to this team and your role over the last few years and next year goes beyond pitching. You’re taking on the Roger Clemens style role of mentoring all those guys in the clubhouse (case in point your chat with Dice-K). I would have been sad if I’d already heard your last D&C morning call in. You are great!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 6th, 2007 at 3:06 pm
Absolutely ecstatic you’re coming back Curt! You’re my all time favorite Sox pitcher (used to be that weasel Clemens before you came to town but when he RE-signed with the Yanks that was it for me).
I think it’s great for all sides and expect you to have a great year on your way through baseball and onto representing us in Congress!
Seven dependable starters to pick from next year WOW!
November 6th, 2007 at 3:06 pm
Curt,
So happy for you and your family and of course all or Red Sox Nation!
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