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| Calling it quits | 03.23.09 at 9:37 am ET |
“Turn out the lights, the parties over”
I used to wait with bated breath for Don Meredith to start singing that on “Monday Night Football.” Normally, it was sweet music if the Steelers were playing.
If I could get him to sing it again, I would. This party has officially ended. After being blessed to experience 23 years of playing professional baseball in front of the world’s best fans in so many different places, it is with zero regrets that I am making my retirement official.
To say I’ve been blessed would be like calling Refrigerator Perry “a bit overweight.” The things I was allowed to experience, the people I was able to call friends, teammates, mentors, coaches and opponents, the travel, all of it, are far more than anything I ever thought possible in my lifetime.
Four World Series, three World Championships. That there are men with plaques in Cooperstown who never experienced one — and I was able to be on three teams over seven years that won it all — is another “beyond my wildest dreams” set of memories I’ll take with me.
The game always gave me far more than I ever gave it. All of those things, every single one of those memories is enveloped with fan sights and sounds for me. Without the fans, they would still be great memories, but none would be enduring and unforgettable because they infused the energy, rage, passion and “feel” of all of those times. The game was here long before I was, and will be here long after I’m gone. The only thing I hope I did was never put in question my love for the game, or my passion to be counted on when it mattered most. I did everything I could to win every time I was handed the ball.
I am and always will be more grateful than any of you could ever possibly know.
I want to offer two special thank you’s.
To my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for granting me the ability to step between the lines for 23 years and compete against the best players in the world.
To my wife Shonda and my 4 children, Gehrig, Gabriella, Grant and Garrison for sacrificing their lives and allowing baseball to be mine while I played. Without their unquestioned support I would not have been able to do what I did, or enjoy the life, and I am hopefully going to live long enough to repay them as much as a Father and Husband can.
Thank you and God Bless
Curt Schilling
March 23rd, 2009 at 1:40 pm
For 2004 alone, we are forever grateful. Thanks!!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 1:59 pm
For 2004 alone,we are forever grateful. Thanks!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Best of luck Schil. While I was never a fan of any of your teams, I certainly respect what you brought to the game.
I can’t stand the Red Sox (LOL), but your plaque better be waiting for you in Cooperstown.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:00 pm
hey schill dog thanks for the memories. helping us win the world series in 04 and 07 will never be forgotten in new england. heres to a good reitrement and hopefully you wearing a sox cap for your hall of fame enshrinement!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:06 pm
Thank you, Curt.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:06 pm
You will be missed. Basbeball needs more people who carry themselves with class and speak with honesty. As a fan, thank you for all you have given to the great sport of baseball.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:07 pm
Mr. Schilling,
Although I am a Yankee fan I want to wish you the best. You were a hell of a competitor and a great man for doing all the work you did to help spread the awareness of ALS. My HS here in Northport has done a lot of work to help raise awareness as well, as 3 of our teachers over the years devoloped the disease. Once again, It was great watching you pitch even if it was for Boston. You deserve to be in the HOF and I hope you get there.
~ Oaks
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:07 pm
Curt congratulations on your retirement. It seriously was the highlight of my baseball fanhood to see you come here to Boston and help lead our team to it’s first title in 86 years. Have a wonderful retirement and stay out of politics!
Just kidding! Have a great rest of your life.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:08 pm
Thanks Curt…from all of us Fenway Fans in South Florida-
rosie
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:09 pm
So long mouth. Good riddance.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:10 pm
Just wanted to say thank you for all the memories Curt. Being originally from Arizona and not having a team here to cheer for I picked the Red Sox despite the history. And when Arizona was able to finally get a team I have bled purple and teal (and now red) I just wanted to say thanks for allowing me the opportunity to witness and be apart of those World Series. Good luck in your future endeavors.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:10 pm
well, nothing to say but a very big, very sincere Thanks a LOT pal. As a 51 year old who grew up playing little league baseball and being part of the ‘impossible dream’ year of ‘67 and the heartache that St. Louis, the yankees, etc. gave to us, it was with unbelievable amazement and joy that your Red Sox team delivered. i hope the Sox retire your number and put a statue of you up outside the stadium. You came up big, to say the least. Fair winds…Will look forward to your next adventures. –Robert
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:10 pm
Dear Curt,
Thanks for all the memories and helping to break the curse after 86 years. You’re presence will be missed.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:10 pm
Finally! Thank God, I’ve been waiting for this moment for 10 years! Finally the most annoying and ridiculous player in the history of baseball is hanging ‘em up. Now we can only hope that he doesn’t pull a Roger Clemens and keep coming back. PLEASE – stay retired and recede like your hairline into the sunset. A great day for baseball.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:11 pm
Curt I have loved baseball all my life I miss the players of the 60s and 70s I have always thought you to be a throw back to that time many props on a well played career wish the best for you in the future
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:11 pm
Curt,
A graceful exit to an excellent career. Thanks for you Diamondback days it created a new excitement for baseball that is still with me.
All the best,
Rick
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:11 pm
Curt,
Thanks so much for putting your all into everything you did in baseball, especially with the Red Sox, winning two titles. And thanks to your family as well. You deserve all the joys that retirement will bring you, and your family deserves the joys of your retirement as well.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:11 pm
I have to say that I am saddened today to learn of Curt’s retirement. He will be forever remembered for his gritty and gutsy performances and imortalized for helping the Sox overcome 86 years of frustration. Curt was one of the few Major Leaguers that fans today could relate to. He took the time to do meaningful interviews, called sports talk radio, and gave a real opinion. I can remember the personal anguish I felt after he lost his no-hitter with 2 outs in the 9th. Love him or hate him, you have to respect him. Boston misses you already Curt.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:12 pm
Congratulations on a marvelous career. No one will ever question Curt Schilling’s commitment to baseball and to the fans who supported him.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:12 pm
First of all, congratulations on a great career, you’ve accomplished a lot, and that can’t be taken away from you. However, I must express how disrespectful of many legends in the game that you’ve been. Your comments a few years back in either Sports Illustrated or Baseball Digest (not sure which) in which you said if Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle, among others, played in today’s game, they would be average to below average players. You are in no position to say that. They played in an era where the mound was higher, the ball was less live, and the talent pool was much more concentrated. If they had played in today’s era, they might’ve even done better against the pluthra of no talent overhyped arms in the league today. It was very discrespectful, and I don’t think you are the expert you make yourself out to be. Congratulations, and go Yankees.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:12 pm
Curt,
As a Sox fan I’m sad to see you go, but gratefull for the memories you bought us. As an avid MMO player; I’m estatic to hear that you’ll have even more time to commit to the development of 38 Studios first MMO! All kidding aside, October baseball won’t be quite the same with out you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:13 pm
I’m a 64 year old RedSox fan that thought it was impossible for them to win a championship. You were the ultimate warrior that changed the culture in the clubhouse. Thanks so much for that. You will be a part of every success that comes along in the future. I’ve never run across a more misunderstood athlete. When you give a quote you are criticised (most players are afraid to be quoted.) When you earn extra money you are called greedy (yet those who listen know that all that extra money goes to charity. We in New England were blessed to have you and Shonda with us for those few years. I wish it could have been for more. God Bless.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:13 pm
Curt,
While I am not a Red Sox fan(sorry but I’m a life long Yankee fan), I have always followed and admired your career given the fact that you have never been afraid to speak of your faith in Christ. With so many negative influences on our youth today is has been overly refreshing to watch someone be an example of God’s love in such a public eye. I pray that God continues to bless you and your family as you get to relax a little and enjoy them the way I am sure they have enjoyed you. Thanks for a great career and for not being ashamed of the Gospel.
Brian Hamby
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:14 pm
Thank you Curt, for your endless spirit and passion for the game. It was an inspiration and a catalyst every time you took the mound. Thank you for your part in the Red Sox World Series Championship – something I never thought I’d see in my lifetime and one of the top three moments of my life (marriage – #1, kids – #2). God bless..
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:17 pm
I am glad that I had a pleasure meeting you when you played for the Dbacks and I had enjoyed watching you pitch. I am happy that you were able to receive three World Series rings during your baseball career. You were an awesome pitcher and I am going to miss watching you pitch. I wish you well and I hope you enjoy your retirement.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Curt Enjoy Your retirement!!!!!!. Thank you so much for those wonderful years and thank you so much for being a member of the Boston RedSox!!!!!!!. God Bless you Curt and Maby sometime could you come to the Baptist Church In Beaufort South Carolina and do a Faith Story at the Church I go to. That would be great if you could do that Curt. Email my pastor Jim Wooten at jwooten@boob.org ok Curt. Take care and Enjoy Life and God Bless you and your Family.
From, Jeff
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Curt,
Great Career…Thank you for the years in Boston!
Scott
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:20 pm
We just want to thank you for all you have done. We repect your decision.
You have given more than your all to the Red sox and the fans as well as the other teams you were a part of. You certainly was the positive spirit we needed to win our 1st world series in many a year. We were always moved by you turning around on the mound with the cross in your hands for your prayer before you did your 1st pitch.
You will be missed. We pray we will see you attending some of the RS games and that you don’t forget that whenever you make an appearance you will be a reminder that you always carried a winning spirit.
Just a side note. We always hoped when you retired you would come back as a pitching coach. They could use a man with God on his side as well as a man who knows his stuff and could continue teaching as you were doing while on the team.
God bless you and your family as you enjoy your ongoing journey in life and thank you again from the bottom of our hearts.
Sincerely,
Gene & Carolyn Nutile
Nashua, NH
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:21 pm
Curt Jim Wooten’s email address is jwooten@bcob.org
Jeff Riley
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:21 pm
Just a note, Mr Schilling, to say thanks for all the wonderful memories.
All the best to you and yours.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:21 pm
Great..One less selfish boring jerk in the game. Hopefully no more stupid blog.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:22 pm
Thanks for the memories Schill. I’ve enjoyed your time w/the sox. My wife and I flew from San Diego to watch you pitch game two and will never forget. My son and I also enjoyed your almost no hitter in Oakland. He still has the picture of the scoreboard as the game ended. He also has a green sox jersey, the only one he owns by the way.
I enjoyed your impromptu appearences on sonsofsamhorn till they got two big for their britches. sonsofsam mabey…
I also enjoy your wit and wisdom on this website.
Good luck in whatever you do, hopefully you’ll come be Mayor of San Diego, God know we need a GOOD one!
See you at your Hall of Fame induction speech in Cooperstown.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:22 pm
Thank you, Curt for what you did for the Red Sox and what you have contributed to the game of baseball.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:22 pm
Thanks for all the memories! Especially the Red Sox Championship! You will always be one of my favorite players.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:22 pm
Thanks for the memory’s Curt,enjoy your retirement we sure enjoyed your career.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Curt,
Thanks for everything you have done for the game. A BIG thanks for bringing that championship back to Boston! You have been an insparation to me over the years and I couldnt be more grateful.
Best of luck to you and your family in all of your future endeavors!
Brad
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Curt: We all know the story about how most of the Red Sox starters refused to take the ball for the 1948 playoff with the Indians. You washed away that sorry history and a lot more. I’ve been a Sox fan since 1953, and I never saw a smarter, guttier competitor between the lines. Thank you for all that you did, and let’s hope to see you wearing a Sox cap in Cooperstown.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:23 pm
I wish you all the best in your retirement, Mr. Schilling. It has been an absolute pleasure to follow your career from Philadelphia, where I first saw you, to Arizona, and most proudly in Boston. You provided many spectacular moments on the diamond, and I am proud to be able to say that I saw one of the game’s greatest pitchers play. Thank you for the incredible memories.
Also, thank you for your contributions off the field as well as your wife’s contributions to all of the charities and fund raising you both have used your celebrity status to highlight.
Again, best wishes on retirement and all of your future endeavors.
Sincerely,
Michael Aronson
A proud member of Red Sox Nation
Hamilton, NJ
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:24 pm
Thanks for all you’ve done for Sox fans, Curt. One quesiton remains, when you go into the Hall of Fame, which hat will you choose to wear?
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:24 pm
“Four World Series, three World Championships. That there are men with plaques in Cooperstown who never experienced one”
Some are saying your stats may not be up to par with those already in the hall of fame, but this fact in the statement you made is the reason why I eagerly await your induction into the hall. Personal stats are nice and yours have been great but the true measure of greatness is championships and you have not only won more than your share, but have been the ace dominating games and leading the way for your teams to claim their crowns.
I always loved watching you pitch and wished one day you’d come lead my Astros to the championship. Thanks for the memories and the great feats; you are one of a kind.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:24 pm
Thank You Curt
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:24 pm
Thank you, Curt. Pure and simple. Thank you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Thanks for the memories and for being real about your Christianity… I hope you and your family have the best life possible while on this earth, knowing that Eternal life with God will far surpass our wildest dreams…
Fellow Christian since 1983 & Red Sox fan since 1974
Bill Hendrick
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Thank you!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:25 pm
YOU’RE THE GREATEST CURT! THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Thanks for your effort, desire and skill in helping the Sox win the first one in 86 years. Enjoy the next stage of your life.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Class act. I love the fact that Curt didn’t do the crying into the microphone retirement. This is a great way to end a great carear. Good Luck Curt, Thanks for the 2 much waited for Championships. You wont be forgotten.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:25 pm
What a career. Baseball could use more people like you.
Thanks for the entertainment and for your work to fight ALS – my grandmother was diagnosed with it just a few days before she passed away last month.
And good luck on your game! I can’t wait to get a look at it.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:26 pm
You will be missed.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:26 pm
There is no way he should be in the hall of fame. He was a “good pitcher” and thats it. His teamates did’nt even like him. He made comments about New Yorkers he does’nt even know. As several people have already said including people in sport broadcasting, and I will say it my self he is my least favorite player in any spot ever. No way he gets in..
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:27 pm
Go Bless You and THANKS
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Thanks for the memories, Curt. I still laugh when I think about your Dunkin Donuts TV commercial back in 2004…
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Curt,
It has been an honor and a priviledge to have been able to follow your baseball carreer. Very few have been able to have the success and the accomlishments that you have been able to have and to also, showcase true character. You will be sorely missed and I wish you well in your retirement.
Once again thank you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Schill, Thanks for the memories as one of the best players to ever put on a uniform. Your career is an unbelievable story that your family will talk about for generations to come. I appreciated the confidence and determination you instilled in the teams that you played for and the joy and entertainment you provided for your fans. I know you career did not end exactly as planned but I think pitching in the World Series would be humbling to anybody.
My Grandfather was a huge Sox when I was growing up and I remember going to his house and he would always have the game on. As a youth I played baseball and was a pitcher, I remember having conversations with him about baseball for hours on end and both us had so much passion for the game. Sadly my Grandfather passed away at the age of 67 due to prostate cancer that was discovered to late and he was not able to witness one of the greatest runs in sports history. Alright I’m starting to ramble here so in short Thank you for the memories and helping to bring two World Series trophies to the New England area, I appreciate everything you did for us and the stories I will tell my own children.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Congrats on your retirement! All my best for you and your family – you deserve it. See you around. Neil
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Thank you for all the enjoyment I experienced watching you and you being apart of the greatest team ever, The Boston Red Sox.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:29 pm
Thank you Mr. Schilling for all the memories!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:29 pm
Thank’s Curt. For all your years of great baseball. For all your gritty comments and most importantly for your getting us our first World Series in 04. You will always be remembered and revered in Red Sox Nation. Hope they have a day for you this summer. Good Luck in all your future ventures
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:30 pm
Curt, Best wishes to you and your family and hope you succeed in retirement
as well as you pitched.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:30 pm
We saw you pitch game after game, admiring your dedication to baseball. We’ll miss you, Curt.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:30 pm
heck of a career, Curt. On behalf of the people of Boston, New England, and the geographically-scattered people of Red Sox Nation, I’d like to thank you for everything you’ve done for the Red Sox and for the city of Boston.
Winning the World Series was certainly NOT a one man effort, but if we were to hypothetically credit just one player from 2004, it would have to go to you and your injured ankle, and the phenomenally inspiring outings you had in Game 6 and Game 2. Whenever I need a reminder of what true grit is, what toughness is, what determination is, and what it means to possess honor and valor, I think of the wince on your face as you delivered pitch after quality pitch while the blood soaked up into your sock.
…Taking nothing away from David’s unbelievable game-winning slugs, or Foulke’s poise and precision, Dave Roberts’ steal, Bill Mueller’s RBI single up the middle, Damon’s 2 HRs in Game 7 of the ALCS…
Thank you Curt for striking out the ghost of Babe Ruth, for turning the tables, for doing the impossible.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Thanks for it all Curt!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:31 pm
I would just like to take this opportunity to thank you Curt for what you did for not only the Red Sox but, for lifelong fans like myself who never thought that they would live long enough to see ONE World Series title, nevermind TWO!! On a selfish note, I would’ve liked to see you comeback for one more shot. But I totally understand why it’s not possible. After 23 years (if I may be a bit presumptuous) it was probably more the body overriding the spirit. I guess it lends credence to the statement…better to step aside a year early…than a year too late. Enjoy your retirement. Well Done! Thanks again & God Bless.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Thanks for the memories, you did a good job. God bless you and your family on your new life apart from baseball.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Curt,
Thank you for all that you have done for the community, baseball, and Red Sox fans. Bringing two Championships to New England after an 86 year drought is quite an accomplishment.
I wish you well in all your future endeavors and I don’t doubt we will see you in Cooperstown before to long.
God Bless,
Steve
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Curt, thank-you for giving my family two things: My Godson yelling “Curt Schilling and the Bloody Sock!” in 2004 and the penant my husband hung on his father’s grave after that World Series. My husband had your shirt on yesterday. Again, thank-you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:32 pm
I am a Red Sox fan. Thank you for everything you gave my favorite team and we would still be living with “The Curse” if it wasn’t for a major contribution on your part….we could have used you for the repeat last year!!! But just so you know…you should definitely be in the Hall Of Fame….You are the most consistent “Big-Game” pitcher EVER…you have no idea how much you mean to us Sox fans….I wish you well in your retirement and hope that you will not fade away in the public eye but keep on going with the blogs and radio.You have provided me with some great memories(Of course, the sock)…if you ever make a comeback…just please make sure you aren’t wearing pinstripes.
William Theobald
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:33 pm
God bless you Mr. Shilling…thanks for your work ethic, candor and for bringing home the World Championship(s) that Boston was so longing for and so deserving of.
For all the thanks you feel for being able to have participated for so many years…we the Boston faithful owe you more thanks and gratitude for your contributions.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Thanks for everything Curt.
Born and raised in Philly, I loved watching you pitch here. It was terrible when you were traded but it was clear at that time that your winning attitude wasn’t shared with the Phillies ownership.
I was thrilled for you when you teamed up with The Big Unit to win it all and the unthinkable came true when you moved on to Boston…I started rooting for the Sox!
My 4 year old has a photo of you in the Phils pinstripes in his room and he’ll be told about how great you were for the game both on and off the field.
I know it’ll be tough to decide, but you’ve got 5 years from today to do it……..will you wear a “P” or a “B” into The Hall??
-Steve in Philly.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:34 pm
if you get a job in tv i’ll vomit on myself
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Thank you Jesus.
Sincerely,
Yankees Fan.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:35 pm
Thanks for the memories, Curt, you’re one-in-a-million. As a fan, we were blessed to cheer you on. Go do great things with the family – they’ll always be prouder of you when you wrestle or coach or tickle them anyway, partner.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:35 pm
God bless, champ. You came through that door and delivered.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:35 pm
You were without a doubt one of the main factors that got us a world series tile in 86 years. I only wish my father would have been around to see it all happen.
2004 was a year for Redsox fans that none of us will ever forget.
See you at Curt Schilling night at Fenway!
Congratulations!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:35 pm
Curt you certainly epitomized professionalism and tenacity every step of the way! Your intelligence and your character should land you in the HOF alone, not to mention your ability to step up to the plate in the playoffs. God bless you and your family and please don’t be a stranger to WEEI or the rest of New England.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Thanks to Curt for his great skill and passion for the game over all 23 seasons but especially for 2004, the bloody sock, that World Series Championship and the victorious 2007 Series as well!
A Proud Member of Red Sox Nation,
Mitch Lutch
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Thanks….Even tho you were part of a team that beat MY team in one of those WS, I only wanted my team beating the best…not walking over the weak. You were a part of lifting the “Curse” too….( maybe you need a job with the Cubs now so we can NEVER again hear about those stupid “curses” )…lol….it’s been fun, pitchers like you seldom come along. I’ll keep reading.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:36 pm
We’ll miss you Curt. Hopefully we’ll be seeing you in Cooperstown in a few years
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:37 pm
Thanks Curt for making my teenage and early adulthood years. As a Philly phan, 1993 was by far the best year of my life. You, the Krukker, Dutch and Nails couldn’t have given me a better year. What you accomplished in 2001 and 2004 was also tremendous as I hate the yankees to death. You will be enshrined in my basement sports bar and myself and family will always be greatful for the years you gave us. Our love and passion for the game is because of players like you. See you in Cooperstown in 2013.
Jeff Bodholt
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:38 pm
Curt- Thanks for helping end “The Curse”. I always enjoyed your comments as they were from the heart, not necessarily the company line. I hope to come to your Hall of Fame induction in 5 years!
Roger
Oklahoma City
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:38 pm
Thank you, Curt. For all that you have done for this wonderful game we call baseball. Myself and many others watched from the edges of our seats in 2004 as you helped lead the Red Sox to the World Series and eventually the title. From a Tigers fan, thank you. Godspeed in all you do in the future
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:38 pm
Curt,
This is a sad day for baseball and for Red Sox fans. I hope I can explain to my kids someday how much you did for the Boston Red Sox. Enjoy your retirement, you will be missed. THANK-YOU.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:38 pm
Curt,
As a life long Red Sox loyalist and a fan of MLB I say thank you for your twenty-three years of service. Your light shined brightest on the biggest of stages and I hope the Baseball writers remember that when your number is called for Cooperstown. Godspeed my man.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:38 pm
Curt,
I want to begin by personally thanking you for your wonderful career as a professional baseball player. I am a huge Redsox fan, and when I got word that you signed with the Sox I was thrilled. I thought, not only did we acquire one of baseball’s best pitchers, but we got a true, pride-infested, hard working, professional. I remember watching that first Ford commercial of you saying, ” going to Boston to end a curse”, and I said to myself, “wow, what a cocky son of a gun”. Few months later, you did exactly what you promised Redsox Nation. I know personally during interviews with you, I was always curious to hear what you were going to say, I envied the fact that you were not afraid to say what’s on your mind. Last season I was bummed out that you couldn’t pitch, mainly beacuse I really wanted to see your last game before retirement in a Redsox uniform. I guess I could be called selfish, but I didn’t want to see you go to any other team and take on the role of that teams new “professional”. I feel you someday when your kids are fully grown that you should come back to baseball and become a coach in some way. The way you took it upon yourself to educate some of the younger players on the team, show them the right way, how you would run back into the dugout between innings and look over your extensive notes in your book, is exactly what kids who are thinking about playing someday in the Majors should be doing. There are a very select few in the Majors that I would dub “Professional”, many others are more caught up in the salary game, and don’t care about being a team player, but you, Mike Lowell, Jason Varitek, among others day in and day out have proven over your lengthy careers what Professional Baseball Players should be. I also want to thank you and your wonderful family for all you have done with A.L.S. You and your wife have worked as equally hard in bringing this horrible disease to the fore front, again Thank You! Good Luck on your retirement, and on behalf of all Redsox Fans, thankyou for being part of the massacre of the “Curse”.
Marco D.
Wilmington, Ma
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:39 pm
Curt, “mahalo” for always providing an honest insight into the game we love. Our family (seven girls & me!) enjoyed both your professional actions along with your personal endeavors. We wish you and your family the best in the future. If you ever venture to Maui, you folks are always welcome. Aloha, Richard
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:41 pm
Farewell Mr. Schilling, you will be sorely missed from the diamond in a time where the diamond needs people, statesman like you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:42 pm
Curt,
A lifelong Red Sox fan here transplanted many years ago…We owe you so much thanks for what you brought to the Red Sox. In four short years you took this fan and pulled him onboard for a great ride. I fondly call you one gutsy SOB ….Loved the way you played the game and the attitude you brought out on the field. God bless you and your family, I am forever greatful!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:42 pm
Curt, Thank you so very much. You are my hero. All of your values are so fantastic. I will work to get as many votes for you if your run for office in Massahusetts. We so desperatly need honest people who are not hypocryites like Kennedy, kerry, McGovern and Sweet Little Barney. All of these people are killing us.
I will still wear my Schilling jersy to all the RS games I get to go to. You were great. I hope I am still alive to see you inducted in the Hall.
To you and your family I wish a glorious and blessed Easter!
Herman
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:43 pm
Thank you for the precious memories Curt. The game of baseball is better because of your accomplishments and everything you have done on-and-off the field. You’re a Hall-of-Famer in my book. Congrats on your success.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:43 pm
Mr. Schilling, It was amazing to have you in a Red Sox uniform. May your grit and determination bring you what you desire off the field as well. Thank you.
Just another fan,
Chris Fuller
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:44 pm
From thr bottom of my heart thank you for helping us win the 2004 WCS!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:44 pm
Curt,
Amazing!!! You are by far a class act. Even though I have been a Yankee fan since I was 9 years old, (watching ballgames with my grandfather on a 14″ black and white with knobs and bunny ears) it was a privilledge to watch you. We have all been blessed by watching you play. Your heart, dedication, and enthusiam for the game is by far what you gave to the game, and the fans. The younger players in the league should take note and never take anything for granted. You are a ball player, always was a ball player, and will always be a ball player. I will enjoy taking my kids to Cooperstown one day and telling them about the “Great” Curt Schilling. Thank you for all the years, god bless you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:44 pm
You’ll be sorely missed, Mr. Shilling! I wish the best for you and your family – you’re a classy guy, and the Red Sox were a better team because you were a part of it! Be well and take care
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:45 pm
Thank you Curt. I remember when the sox traded you to Baltimore, and didn’t like the idea. Watched (and rooted for you) with the Astros, Phillies, and Diamondbacks. I was happy for you to win it with Arizona and wondered what would have happened if you had stayed with the Red Sox. Then you came back with the intention of winning the series for all the Boston fans and the organization. AND YOU DID IT!!!! I will forever be your biggest fan for what you did. I can’t thank you enough, and can only hope to be able to do it in person someday. I wish you all the best in the world for you and your family. Thanks again from the bottom of my heart.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:45 pm
Curt, Thank you so very much. You are my hero. All of your values are so fantastic. I will work to get as many votes for you if you run for office in Massachusetts. We so desperately need honest people who are not hypocrites like Kennedy, Kerry, McGovern and Sweet Little Barney. All of these people are killing us.
I will still wear my Schilling jersey to all the RS games I get to go to. You were great. I hope I am still alive to see you inducted in the Hall.
To you and your family I wish a glorious and blessed Easter!
Herman
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:46 pm
congrats on a great career
glad that you were part of the 2 world series
enjoy listening to you on the radio
and don’t let the blowhards get to you
keep speaking your mind
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:46 pm
Thank-you…not only for helping to bring a championship to ths city of Boston…but, thank-you for being a great role model. You will be long remembered for your charitable work and your honesty. You have been a phenomenal example of what being a major league athlete in the media is all about. It would be refreshing to see others fall in your footsteps. Hoping the future brings you and your family many more years of happiness.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:46 pm
Thanks for everything you have done for baseball and especially for the Boston Red Sox. It was a pleasure to watch you pitch
LDF – Concord NH
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Thank You for 2 world championships, and being the kind of player who truely loved and respected the game and not just the perks of it.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Just wanted to thank you for the time you could spend in Boston. Your World Series performance was perhaps the greatest example of sports courage and giving “110%” for the team in complete disregard for yourself that I have ever witnessed in my almost 59 years.
If you do not make it into the Hall of Fame on the first ballot, it would be criminal.
Thanks for the memories, and ending the years of the “Curse”.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:48 pm
i miss u curt u r teh best!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:48 pm
Curt,
I am one of the many who disagrees with much of what you say on this blog, and it has become a hobby of mine to post my thoughts and argue you day in and day out. With that said, you absolutely proved that you could be counted on and that you loved the game. Whether or not we as fans agree with everything you stand for is irrelevant when realizing that. Thank you for all you did for the Sox.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:48 pm
Curt,
As a life long Red Sox fan I can only say than you for the mmemories and helping to bring a championship to Boston. I hope you enjoy your retirement as much I enjoyed watching you pitch.
Tim
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:49 pm
A huge thank you from cape cod mass. You were an inspiration and a joy to watch play. So, again, thank you from me and all of new england.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:49 pm
Congrats – here’s to a great career! (I’m pouring a glass of wine) –
blessings,
Chi
http://www.theworldlovepoem.com
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:49 pm
You were great to watch and not so great to listen to when you were talking about anything other than baseball. It’s ok though, you can’t be great at everything. Don’t let the door hit you…
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:49 pm
You gave us some great moments, Curt. I certainly won’t forget about you. God bless you, your endeavors, and your family.
Go Sox!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Thank you for what you did in Boston. Next stop Cooperstown.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:52 pm
Curt – Thank you so much for everything you did for the Red Sox and Red Sox Nation, although just to say “thank you” doesn’t begin to say it all. We wouldn’t have won without you in 2004 and just your presence in the dugout AND on the field made such a difference. Thanks, too, for you and your family’s contributions outside of baseball. It’s been wonderful having you as part of our ‘nation’ for the past few years and I hope we will always remain in your heart.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:53 pm
Mr. Schilling-
I thought it necessary to recognize a man with the courage to speak his mind on many important subjects (that may not be politically correct) and the humility to acknowledge that the world does not revolve around him. Thank you for having the guts to take a stand and give the glory to God. Thank you for standing up for our brave men and women in the Armed Forces; particularly those in Iraq and other places where life and death decisions are a daily responsibility. And thank you for being someone that young people can look up to and emulate in a sports world of self-centered knuckleheads and a political world of godless, invertebrate cheats. When you run for the US Senate let us know. God knows they need some intestinal fortitude!
Know that you and your family are lifted up in prayer by our family in your time of transition.
Mark & Linda Nienaber and Family
Covington, KY
And, yes, we are long-time Cincinnati Reds fans, so we’ve seen a few good ballplayers.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:53 pm
Curt – Thank you so much for everything you did for the Red Sox and Red Sox Nation, although just to say “thank you” doesn’t begin to say it all. We wouldn’t have won without you in 2004 and just your presence in the dugout AND on the field made such a difference. Thanks, too, for you and your family’s contributions outside of baseball. It’s been wonderful having you as part of our ‘nation’ for the past few years and I hope we will always remain in your heart.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:53 pm
Congrats and Thanks Curt, I still sant to know if it was you sitting next to me in Oakland last year…..See Above
Ray
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Thanks for everything. Happy retirement.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:55 pm
Thank you for everything you’ve done for baseball. Red Sox Nation owes and admires you. No doubt you’ll put that passion and drive into whatever you do next. Good luck and Godspeed!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:55 pm
Thanks for the great memories of your time in AZ. Your passion was uplifting and inspiring.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Thank You Curt!
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:56 pm
THANK YOU Curt for those 23 incredible years!!! Next stop–Cooperstown!!!!!!!!!! You know, without your determination and drive and uncanny ability to pitch thru your injury in 2004, the Red Sox may still be waiting for that World Championship!!
Man, you’re the BEST!!! If I could name two pitchers of our lifetime who I would want as my 1-2 in a World Series for ALL the marbles it would be you and Smoltzy!! You’re an honorable man and I’m proud to say “Brother” in Jesus Christ!!!
Incredible career!!! Incredible heart!!! Incredible man!!! Enjoy your family and your time!!!!
Love ya Curt!!!!!!!
Danny Cartner :O)
Statesville, NC
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:57 pm
Hi Curt,
Thanks for the amazing years of thrills as a great Red Sox pitcher.
Gonna miss seeing you on the mound.
You are the kind of guy though, that will find there is a life and a place in it for you after leaving the field.
Yours,
Ed T
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:57 pm
Curt:
I am a 52-year-old lifelong Red Sox fan. I have so much respect for you and for what you did for the Red Sox. We would not have won in 2004 without your 21 regular season wins and Game 6 of the LCS and your performance in the WS. You played the game right, respecting your teammates, the fans and the game. You’re a thoughtful and decent person. Best of luck in your future endeavors. I hope you stay in the Boston area and are somehow involved in Baseball.
Take care.
Larry Einig
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:57 pm
GOOD! Get outa here you Yankee killer!
HA! Seriously though, congrats on a great career and Good Luck w the Family, video games, and all your other future endeavors.
Jason
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:58 pm
Curt,
Thank you for being a Christian Athlete! The type I allow my sons to admire. The type whose posters are allowed to hang in their rooms. We need more of you!!
Thank you for being part of the team that brought the World Series Championship to Boston!
We will never forget you….and may God richly bless your life.
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:59 pm
Thanks
March 23rd, 2009 at 2:59 pm
[...] used his blog, 38 Pitches, to formerly make his announcement: The game always gave me far more than I ever gave it. All of [...]
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Curt, best wishes in retirement. Thanks for bringing two World Series Championships to Boston, something I never thought I would see in my lifetime. So many memories, I’ll just say it was a pleasure watching you pitch.
How about you throw out the first pitch at Fenway next year … a 94mph fastball down the middle of the plate!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Curt, Good luck to a gentleman. I met you at a golf tournament, and was impressed with your caring nature to ALS. Thanx for a World Series.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:00 pm
We will miss you, Curt! Your were primarily action as a player rather than primarily talk, giving 100 percent commitment to winning baseball games and doing things the right way. You deserve much credit for listening to Roger Clemens years ago about your talent being squandered and doing whatever it took to avoid squandering that ability – and look what it got you: Three championship rings along with a stellar reputation as one of baseball’s best warriors ever. May you, Shonda, the kids and that great dog Rufus have a great family life in the many years ahead.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Sad to hear you go!
but you had a Awesome run! I hope that you have a good retirement.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Curt, I retired after 33 years as a police Lieutenant. So I can verify it is not an easy decision. However my family and I just want to take this minute to thank you for all the years you provided entertainment to us. Unlike many athletes today you have always been a positive role model. We wish you and your family nothing but good health and happines.
Sincerely
Ken and Carol Benson
North Grafton Massacusetts
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Kurt,
You are missed already. I’ve been a fan of yours since I saw you throw for the fighten Phills a few years back. I was sad to see you leave, but still followed your career closely.
I must thank you being a champion of a CLEAN game of baseball. A-Rod, Sosa, McGuire, Bonds etc…None of these players holds a candle to your grit or your integrity, on and off the field.
I am proud to let my son consider you his roll model!!
Best wishes and happy fishing..
Vance Logan
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Thanks for all you did for the Sox, Schill. Enjoy your retirement, you deserve it. Next stop…Cooperstown!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:01 pm
As a lifelong Red Sox fan, I want to thank Curt Schilling for what he did for our team. YOU, sir, have attained what my friends and I dreamed of on the wiffle ball lot and playgrounds of my youth. Not only did you become a world champion with the Red Sox in 2004, but the manner in which you contributed to that championship was so unbelievable that even the imagination of my youth would find far fetched.
So, for every kid in New England who ever made believe that they were (or had the potential to be) Jim Lonborg or Carl Yastrzemski I say “thank you”. Maybe in our next lifetime we will be blessed with the God given talent and desire that is yours. Enjoy your “retirement”, may your next career be as rewarding as your last.
Jay O.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Dear Mr Schilling,
As A Boston Red Sox Fan I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. I have a lump in my throat in saying good bye. I will NEVER forget how you had a major role in helping us break our curse and winning the world series in the most exciting game and series EVER!…No one will ever be able to come close to that “kind of ride” and the commercial you did prior to coming to Boston….that was the best. Soooo thank you, thank you and thank you…God Bless you and your family. Boston will always consider you as one of our heros…a dedicated Red Sox Fan,….Nancy
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:03 pm
thank you Curt, I know I speak for all of Boston when I say thank you for your time. you brought us a world series after waiting 86 years. I am sad to see you go but I know what ever you do next will be a sucsess thank you and good luck curt,
Charlie Slater
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Thanks for the many great memories and the World Championship. You are a class act and we were lucky to have you in Boston. Cheers to you and a great career! Enjoy each day with your family they are all gifts as I can tell you already know.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Curt,
You are inspiration to us all. I’m glad you’ve always been so outspoken despite not everyone sharing your views. I respect that very much. Your baseball party is over but there are plenty of other’s life parties to enjoy. As a fan, I have always enjoyed you pitch your heart out. You will be always be special to Diamondback fans, Red Sox fans, and hopefully Philly fans as well as MLB fans in general. You deserve all the hall of fame votes you get and deserve to be in there.
You do not know me. You may never will. But it’s always been a pleasure. I know you’re a good guy and the world needs more of you.
Dennis, Red Sox Fan from Chelmsford, MA
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:06 pm
Thank you
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:06 pm
I’m a Yankees’ fan, but I’ll keep this one nice.
Congrats on an amazing career and I hope you have a great retirment. I look forward to seeing your name entering Cooperstown, although I had a pretty great hate for you for the moments that will help you get there.
Congrats again and good luck.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:06 pm
Congratulations on a great career, and thanks for always giving it all on the field, it was always a pleasure to watch you pitch.
Please though, do STAY retired, and for all our sakes, don’t use your cache in New England to run for any meaningful political office……..
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:07 pm
Thank-you Curt for being the stand up guy you are above all else. I never once questioned your committment to the game, the fans, or your teammates. Every game you took the ball I felt confident, even in losses I knew you gave what you had and tipped my cap to the opposition. Some may question how outspoken you are, but I find it quite refreshing even if I disagree with the stance. The point to me was that you are just a person graced with a great talent that you worked hard as hell to perfect. Your words are your thoughts on any given subject, and given the forum, I would express my views in similar fashion. I never though you showed up a teammate or said anything to make yourself look better than them. In retrospect, I think you helped a lot of players get recognized for being the great people they are even if they were not superstar status players. Best of luck to you and your family in all future endeavors.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:07 pm
Thank you, Curt. You are truly a man of honor. Red Sox Nation owes you a large debt of gratitude………God Bless!!!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:07 pm
I always enjoyed watching you play during your time in Philadelphia. When you came to Boston, I could only hope that you would be that final “piece”. When you helped bring the World Series trophy to Boston, you brought tears to a 30+ year old man’s eyes. My grandmother was a diehard Sox fan. She died in 1995 and never got to see them win a Series. She was a big reason that I am such a huge Sox fan. I am very sorry to see you retire, but I wish you and your family nothing but the best. I know you will always be a welcome part of the Beantown family. Enjoy retirement Curt….
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:07 pm
Curt,
As a Red Sox fan it was a true privilege to watch you play for Boston. You are one of select few players who went above and beyond for your team during your career. The 2004 season was a dream come true for Red Sox fans and that could not have been made possible without you. The impact you have had on the game will be remembered for years to come and I truly hope that you are honored once more with a trip to Cooperstown. I wish you the best of luck in your life after baseball. Players like you are few and far between and again it has been a privilege to watch you play in Boston and throughout the rest of your career.
Good Luck,
Brian MacDonald
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:08 pm
As a Yankees fan I couldn’t stand you Curt…but out of respect. I wish you only but the best in retirement. You were/are a credit to the game and are a Hall of Famer, period.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:08 pm
Curt – As a long-time Phillies fan, I am filled with sadness to know that you will never again pitch for us. (I kept hoping!) Thank you so much for so many years of wonderful baseball, both in Philadelphia and Boston.
You are delivered one of the most extraordinary baseball experiences of my life. In 1993, Game 5 of the World Series, I was privileged to sit in the 500-level, right behind Home Plate. Watching you pitch that game was a delight, and your mastery fills me with awe to this day.
Thank you for being a good player, a good teammate (from all reports), and an all-around good human being. Best wishes to you and your family in the future!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:09 pm
Thanks Curt. I am a life long Cubs fan but am a true lover of the game of baseball itself and the art of pitching. Thank you for what you have done for the game of baseball, thank you for treating baseball with the respect that it so deserves. One thing that I can promise you is their will be a white peice of hard rubber 60 feet 6 inches away from home plate come opening day where the baseball gods will notice a big peice of the game missing. If every single player treated and played the game of baseball with the love, demeanor, grace, power, respect and ability that you played it with for so many years every stadium would be full every single night with people fighting just to be able to stand on the mezzanine level to catch just one pitch or one at bat. With a career ERA in the divisional series of under 1.00 and a 10-2 post-season record with a post-season 2.23 ERA you,sir, have changed the game of baseball forever and you are and always will be a hall of famer in my book along with alot of other peoples books. THANK YOU and Best of luck in your retirement and in your life after baseball, I am sure that you will do just as amazing off the field as you did on the field.
Josh-Des Moines, Iowa
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:09 pm
You are the greatest thing that ever happen to Boston one of the few clean pitchers in baseball you sir will be missed my one regret is to never have shanken your hand or gotten your autograph I wish you the best of all there is you sir are my HERO
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:10 pm
Curt…words can’t express my gratitude for the pleasure of seeing you play the game, especially the years you spent in a Red Sox uniform. All I can say is well done. You never cheated anyone. May God bless you every day and every way. I hope to meet you someday. Hooah!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:10 pm
I want to wish Curt the best. I truly believe he brought us the World Series. I have been a fan for quite some time. While watching him pitch for Arizona against the Yankees in 2001 my son said to me “The Red Sox will never win a world series until they get Curt Schilling to pitch for them”. My son was killed in a car accident in 2003. Schilling winning the world series for us was like bringing a part of my son back to me. I will always remember Schilling for the great “bloody sock” and a Red Sox World Series. It brings warm and special memories to me.
Thank you Curt. I wish you and your family the best. Happy Retirement.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:10 pm
Kurt,
Although I’m a Dodgers fan, I’m sorry to see you retire. You were a great player (even rooted for you in the 2001 Series) and never afraid to speak your mind, both of which are truly admired.
Enjoy your retirement and your family.
Michael
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:10 pm
Thank you Curt, we’ll never forget you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Your political views may be wrong, your verbal filter may be faulty, but you sure know how to deliver the goods, and we thank you for it.
Thank you for teaching the Red Sox organization how to win.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Curt,
Good luck with the rest of your life. I wish you could have won one with us, but you’ll always be a Phillie to me.
-Brian from Philly
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:12 pm
My family will miss watching you. Good Luck in your retirement. Was so happy to see you come to Boston and am sad to see you go. God Bless You!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:12 pm
Curt you were great. I hated you as a Yankee fan but I’ll give credit were it’s due. You deserve to be in the HoF. You were one of the greatest pitchers in the game and of this generation. You’ll be missed. I’m sad cause you won’t have a farewell tour. I would have loved to boo you one last time. Good luck in your future endeavors.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:14 pm
Good luck with your future to you and your family and thankyou for coming to Boston. You will be missed.
Nancy
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:15 pm
KURT,
LIVING HERE IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY HAS BEEN TOUGH BECAUSE I AM A LIFE LONG
RED SOX FAN. I HAVE WORN BOSTON INSIGNIA ALL MY LIFE. SINCE YOUR ARRIVAL IN BOSTON AND WITH THE RED SOX CHAMPIONSHIPS, MANY HAVE COMEOUT OF THE
CLOSET AND IT IS QUITE FASHONABLE TO WEAR RED SOX STUFF HERE IN THE MIDDLE
OF YANKEE COUNTRY. THANKS FOR HELPING SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT AND MAKING
ALL OF US BOSTON FANS PROUD.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:16 pm
Here’s to a nice quiet retirement…right?
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:17 pm
Curt,
As an Air Force veteran and life long baseball fan I want to thank you for all you do and all the great pitching you have done over the years. As a Dodger fan my team was mostly on the receiving end of said great pitching over the years and that was a bummer at times
but still it was amazing to watch you work. The money and support you give to our troops speaks volumes to your character and your values. Although we may differ on certain personal views I have always admired your ability to speak your mind and stand up for your beliefs in all aspects of life.
If I had a vote for Cooperstown you would be in. Congratulations again on an amazing career, 3 WS titles including a WS MVP, and here’s to hoping your retirement is as eventful and fun as your career was.
Last note, as a fellow gamer I just have one question… does this mean you will get a chance to raid more? LOL.
Best of luck to you and may you be blessed by whomever does the blessing.
/bow
Jeff H.
Carson City, NV
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:18 pm
There are only two words that i can think about right now :
Thank you.
So many great games and memories, that will forever remain in our minds.
Go Red Sox!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:18 pm
Hi Curt,
Where to start. Thank you. For everything. As a life long Red Sox fan, you took that 2004 team and put them on your shoulders during the World Series. Thank you.
You made me so proud to be a Red Sox fan.
I wish you the best in your retirement. Enjoy the time with your family.
Boston Red Sox fans will never be able to thank you enough for all you have done.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:18 pm
Curt,
First off congratulations on an awesome baseball career!
You will be missed but thankfully we can still hear you occasionally on WEEI.
I’m glad I will never have to cheer against you and I will always remember you as a Red Sox.
I don’t care what hat you wear to Cooperstown, as long as you get there…and you will.
Cheers to you and your family. God Bless!
I’m already looking forward to Curt Schilling Day at Fenway. I will be there, cheering and screaming as loud as I can!
Thank you for coming to Boston and bringing smiles to Red Sox Nation.
Chris
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:18 pm
Curt,
I know you have met a million people in your career,I worked at a particular Western Auto and I had the honor of meeting you. My son’s and I have followed your career ever since. My boy’s are grown now and they still fight over who is going to get the card you signed for me. i hope all is well with your family and we will miss you.
Bernie Joplin
Las Cruces,NM
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:19 pm
Great career, I’m not much of a baseball fan anymore (I used to be, but after the last strike I signed myself out). But what I am is an MMO player, a 39 year old MMO player who thinks WoW is for wussies. So, when are we going to experience a real MMO? Are you still working on that?
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Congratulations on a phenomenal career and all that you accomplished along the way. Your work toward helping to find a cure for ALS and bringing more attention to this devastating disease has done more for its patients and families than you could ever know. The Lou Gehrig Award that you received from Phi Delta Theta is a testament to your philanthropic success, sportsmanship and leadership that you showed through 23 years in the game. Good luck to you and your family, and thank you for bringing two titles to Red Sox Nation!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Curt why don’t you go sit in the driveway with your bud “W”, and
talk about what a good job you did in Iraq ! Mable how many American
soldiers …………. ?
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:21 pm
Mr. Schilling,
I want to say thank you for being our hero in Boston and giving our team the courage to go forth in 2004 and finally win. I don’t think they would have done it without you. Thanks for your honesty and integrity. We will miss you!!! From my family to yours, have a great life.
Jackie & Gary Tilton
Somersworth NH
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:22 pm
You’re an outstanding performer, always a joy to watch and a true gentleman-athlete. Thanks for the great contributions to my Red Sox, and for making the power of Faith known in a gentle, non-confrontational way. Blessings on you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:23 pm
It’s about time you broken down, money grubbing old geezer. Just think of all the money you will save on painting “blood” on your socks.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:23 pm
Curt you were great for the game – cheers
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:24 pm
Thank you “Big Game” for delivering when it matter most to create lasting memories for Philly, D-Back, and especially Red Sox fans. I may not alwasy agree with all your “opinions” but your willingness to speak openly and honestly was refreshing and entertaining.
Your charity is work is second to no one and wish you as much success off the field in your work as you had on the field.
Good luck and God Bless
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:25 pm
Hi Curt,
What an amazing ride of a career you’ve had — and what a thrill for us in Boston to have been able to enjoy a part of it.
Enjoy this next step in in future with 38 Studios, which you clearly have passion for — and most of all, enjoy this time with your family.
Best wishes for a prosperous and happy future.
Rebecca
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:27 pm
Curt,
I echo all of the sentiments mentioned in this blog. You are the type of ballplayer my father would have loved to watch, rest his soul. Your honor and dedication to the game were second to none. Thank you for choosing to play for the redsox and thank you for deciding to retire as a redsox.
Relax and enjoy life..
Mario Lampedecchio
Needham, Mass
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:27 pm
Thanks Curt. Thanks for all the memories and for all the magic. The Sox could have never won either Series without you, and I will always remember you for that. My #38 Shirt has just become vintage! A true dirtdog, love ya Schill!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:28 pm
Dude -
You showed up out of shape to training camps and you wasted the beginning part of your career, but, you became a very very good pitcher.
Being young and dumb is one thing – but old and dumb is another.
And, you have many accomplishments to be proud of. And, I believe I had you on one of my fantasy teams and my strat-o-matic team at some point.
Good luck in the next phase of your career.
And, remember, you cant be young and dumb anymore….that was for when you were in your 20s.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Thanks for the memories, Curt! The love started with a Ford truck commerial for me.. For some reason that will forever stick in my mind.. “on my way to Boston to end and an 86 year old curse”…That you did! Enjoy your retirement. You deserved it!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Curt,
It has been a hoot watching you play for all these years. Like many of those who have posted to your site, I have never been a fan of any team for which you have played. That said, I have admired your work ethic, commitment, sacrifice and attitude you displayed between the lines.
You made me watch games that I’d not otherwise watch.
Your departure leaves a vacuum that will take awhile to fill: I cannot name any hurler out there which stands ready to fill your shoes.
Retirement? I think not. I suspect the drive and passion which made you a success in baseball will find an outlet in another enterprise.
I sincerely hope that you enjoy the time between your baseball-life and your post-baseball life and that your family benefits from that in-between time.
TJ – Detroit Tiger Fan
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Thank you, Curt.
You came here to Boston five years ago to accept the challenge of leading the Boston Red Sox to their first World Series victory since 1918.
Five years, two World Series championships, and one bloody sock later, you more than accomplished your mission.
We’ll see you in Cooperstown on Induction Weekend 2014, wearing a Red Sox cap (of course!).
Congratulations on a great career!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:31 pm
Mama Mia! Whadda sad day! Itsa too bad that Curt-a Chilling will no longer be-a throwing that big-a meat-a-ball!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:31 pm
Curt, As a Red Sox fan and a fan of baseball I want to thank you for all the great baseball moments you have provided. Your epic post season performances will forever be etched in my mind and I am truly sad to see the show end. I wish you the best moving forward and hope that you enjoy the additional time you will now be able to spend with your family.
I can’t wait to read your book (hint, hint) and especially the section that should be titled “Bloody Sox”
Peace,
Jimmy
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:32 pm
Curt, I am a HUGE Yankee fan but baseball is losing someone who actually has a true love for the game. Although many times I’ll find myself screaming at the T.V at you and all the other Red Sox, it is just because of my love of the game. It’s sad to know that there are fewer and fewer players around for the love of the game. Good luck…
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:32 pm
Curt,
Thanks for all you have done for the Boston Red Sox and its fans. Good luck in your future endeavors.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:32 pm
You helped to pull my team out of the depths of low expectations. Since I was lttle boy, we hoped, we prayed and we cheered, and then waited for next year. I know it was more than you, it was a full team effort, but your voice and your words kept you and that team accessable and real to me. I am proud to wear my hats and shirts and Red Sox glory anywhere, and I no longer have to listen to whispers and giggles. Beyond the Championships, you helped to bring more to our team than stats and trophies can symbolize. I will miss watching you wind up an let ‘er rip. I’d yell at the top of my lungs to anyone who could hear me…
“‘ The Mighty Schill’” struck ‘em out, again.”
Thank you from the boy I was, and the man I am…
Chaz.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:35 pm
Curt – First off, thanks for being a huge part in bringing World Series Championship baseball to Boston. I have never heard an athlete so candid and honest about so many issues – politics, family, and athletics to name a few. From the numerous fund raising efforts you have taken control of and your passion to help local families in need, your off field efforts are just as commendable and probably more meaningful to you. I have the feeling that you made a lot of athletes rethink how they approach the game of baseball, all something that was much needed in this era of ego and deception. I hope to still hear your unfiltered comments on WEEI and wish you and your family the best.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:36 pm
I will never forget your performance in 2004. Finally our long national nightmare was over. God bless you Curt for all the good work you do outside the sport as well. Please stay involved with the Red Sox, you will forever have a home here.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:36 pm
As a career Red Sox fan, I recommend Schilling’s number be retired. He could have spent entire career here had Lou Gorman been so obsessed with Mike Boddicker in 1988. God Bless You, Curt, for bringing World Series to Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Boston.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:37 pm
Curt
Thank you for everything you gave the game and the Red Sox.
It was a joy to watch you perform. I am happy that you have retired a Red Sox and are staying in the area. Its always great to listen to you on WEEI!
Even though you’re a Steelers fan I still wish all the best to you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:37 pm
Curt!! Best of luck on retirement, you were a great player and i hope you make it to cooperstown, if i could vote, you would have my vote for sure. Hopefully we can see you on ESPN or sometype of broadcasting show.
Jeremy
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:38 pm
One less loud mouth, egotistic, ahole to deal with in baseball. All you Red Sox fans should be angry with him for stealing money from your ballclub last year instead of praising the chump.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:38 pm
As an Dbacks season ticket holder, I want to thank you for all you brought to our franchise. Baseball is losing one of its great ambassadors of the game. You are a class act and you will be missed in the game!!! Good Luck, and Thank you!!!!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:38 pm
Curt, aka our “Nation’s Hero”… and by “nation” I prop Red Sox Nation. Curt, I always enjoyed watching, hearing and seeing your “toughness and heart”. You medically pushed and altered yourself to bring your team, yourself and a nation to its feet that beautiful night in 2004 on a Blue Moon none the less. You are “once in blue moon!”
Eternally grateful,
“Bear Kicks Shark’s Ass” (SOSH joke)
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:39 pm
Never a Phillies, Snakes, or Sox fan, but always a Curt Schilling fan. God bless, Curt, I wish more of MLB were like you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:40 pm
As a Red Sox fan, I just wanted to say THANK YOU. If it wasn’t for your guts in that game 6, we might not have been able to celebrate that long overdue championship. Thanks for all the great memories. I’m glad I had the privilege to watch you pitch in person, and watch you throughout the years. You’re a HoF lock in my book. I wish you the best in you’re life after baseball.
-Justin Quinn
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:40 pm
I just re-watched games 4 and 7 of the 2001 WS, and those were some terrific performances that demand repeat viewing. As one of my favourite pitchers to watch, you’ll be missed. You deserve a spot in the Hall of Fame.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:41 pm
Curt,
For 2004 alone I am eternally grateful. I remember screaming to anyone who would listen in my dorm (and the neighboring halls), “He’s pushing off the rubber! Holy crap, he’s really doing it!” After seeing you do what you could not from Game 2, it was completely surreal for me. To complement that with another banner in 2007 was like getting a porterhouse steak the next day after you had a porterhouse steak the day you crossed the Sahara desert. You were one of the 25, the team that made me realize that your faith can be rewarded if you never stop believing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:43 pm
Curt,
Without you Red Sox Nation would still be waiting for “next year”. Your efforts were nothing short of amazing. Thank-you for everything.
Dave
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:44 pm
I think I speak on behalf of Red Sox Nation when I say “THANK YOU”. I’m sure there’s a Sox hat waiting in Cooperstown for you. Congratulations.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:44 pm
Curt…our daughter saw you pitch your last game, for the Red Sox, during the World Series, in 2007. She was sitting on the Green Monster, a gift from one of her student’s parents, and called us, crying, predicting, correctly, that she had seen your last game as a Red Soxer. No matter which hat you wear into the Hall of Fame, you’ll always be a Red Sox to us. Good luck and God bless….
Thank you…
Ralph Royds
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:44 pm
Thanks for the wins, and thank you for all the charity work you did in the Boston area. You will be missed by all Red Sox fans. I’m so glad that you finished your career in Boston. I couldnt imagine seeing 38 on the back of another teams jersey. Good luck getting into the Hall of Fame. Peter Gammons and Buster Onley said they’re gonna vote for ya! LOL
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:44 pm
I watched you in Philly and I watched the 01 World Series and I watched you in Boston. I am a Philly phan phirst a Boston fan second and you have given everyone so many wonderful memories. thank you so very much for being honest. That is something that is lacking in today’s game. I wish you and and your family all the best. Thank you again.
Katie D.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:44 pm
Curt,
Thanks for the years in Boston! I loved it too when AZ beat those damn Yankees!
Good luck on the next phase of your life and I hope you spend a lot of time with your family.
-d
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:45 pm
Curt,
Thank you for transforming the world of every Redsox fan. You are an old school pitcher that we have all lucky enough to watch play. We can only read about guys like Christy Matthewson, Rube Marquard and Iron Man McGinnity, but we’ve all been able to watch your dominant performances first hand. Thanks for the memories.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:45 pm
Many congrats on your storied career. The game loved you as much as you loved the game. Take care of yourself and your family. Ron
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:46 pm
I had tears in my eyes when I read this Curt…..You are a class act and were always a money pitcher. You should be a first ballot hall of famer in five short years. I thank you for rejuvenating RedSox nation and for being one of my personal heroes….Thank You Curt you will not be forgotten.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:47 pm
Thank you from Toronto, both for your competitiveness and your honesty. You’re presence will be missed on the field, but hopefully your insights and opinions on this great game will continue well into your much deserved retirement – you’ve earned it and seem to be going out on your own terms, something few althetes get to experience.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:50 pm
Does this mean you will finally SHUT UP and keep your opinions to yourself????
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:50 pm
My sincere thanks to you for your efforts on behalf of mankind and the Boston Red Sox. You will be remembered in this fan’s eyes as – first – a quality person, a fine man, and – second – one of the fiercest competitors and finest pitchers in modern day baseball. Red Sox Nation owes you more than you can ever know. Best of luck in whatever you choose to do with the remainder of your life. God bless.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:50 pm
Thank you for loving the game so purely and genuinely. It is admirable in an age where passion for the simplicity of the game isn’t always at the heart of the players intentions. It clearly was for you! Thank you for saying “yes” to Boston and getting the job done. Thanks for staying and thanks for retiring with a “B” and dangling socks on your lid! As far as Jesus, He is my Savior, too, and I am sure He is smiling on you for living the life He has intended for you. Keep shining His light! Lots of Love from Lowell!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:50 pm
Good luck Curt, and thanks for the memories….
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:50 pm
medfield says thanks for everthing! good luck in retirement.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:52 pm
thanks for the rings kurt. I still remember that ford commercial you did even before you came to boston. Gonna break the curse…and that you did. Keep speakin your mind and stay on Radio, heard you on eei and thought you were great.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:52 pm
Curt, hopefully there is another Schilling baseball story to talk about in five years. You deserve it!
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Thank you for everything, Curt. Thanks for beating the Yankees with Arizona, and thanks for winning with the Sox. You’ve brought so much pride to the city of Boston. Thank you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Curt, give thanks to the genes you inherited, and credit your hard work and dedication for your successes. It frustrates me to no end that athletes (and other humans) think they’ve somehow been specially guided along in the process by some “Santa Claus for adults”. Curt, it was you and your supporting friends/family who made it all happen.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:55 pm
Thank You, Curt, from the heart of a lifelong, and long-suffering full-blooded member of Red Sox Nation. I cringed waaaaaayy back when, when the Sox traded a “promising young prospect named Curt Schilling” to the O’s. Had we known then . . .
Thank you for coming back to Boston and fulfilling the prospect. Game Six against the Yankees will forever be a testament to what “Love of the Game” and putting the team first means. Thank You for helping deliver to all of us Red Sox fans what we yearned for.
And thank you also for what you do in the community, and for the fight against ALS. My best wishes to you and your entire family, for a long and prosperous life.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:55 pm
Curt – From someone who watched you in Rochester and then again in Boston, thanks for everything.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:55 pm
Thanks for everything you have done Curt. Baseball, the community & ALS. Good thing Dave Roberts made it to second base in ‘04 lol!
Chris
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:55 pm
No matter what people say, you are a hard-working, kind man. I appreciate not only what you did in Boston, but what you have done over the past 23 years, and that’s entertained and influenced many individuals including myself. Without players like Curt Schilling in Major League Baseball I would not have continued to ever give up on my dream to play baseball at any level.
Thank you Curt, and keep speaking your mind, you influence many.
Sincerely,
Nate from Maine
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:56 pm
Howdy from North Carolina, Curt -
I’m an NC Red Sox Nation member and enjoyed seeing your name in the box scores every 5 days across 4 seasons. Thank you for contributing to our recent successes.
What’s next for you? Are we going to see you commentating with Joe Morgan soon?
Cheers,
Matt
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:56 pm
I hope you retire and fade away out of the spotlight. Maybe you’ll shut your mouth and not have a say in EVERYTHING, especially things you comment on without facts to back it up. You will NOT be missed at ALL. Thank GOD you’re gone. Yes, the same God that helped you pitch in the playoffs, but also the same one that didn’t help you kick your tabacco habit. As long as his loyalties are in the right place. Good bye you jerk.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:58 pm
Aside from the God nonsense, one of my absolute favorite players ever. Good luck in retirement.
March 23rd, 2009 at 3:59 pm
Congrats Schil!
First, as a life long “third generation” Sox fan, your part in bringing the World Series Championship(s)will never be forgotten. After each of the final series games, I toasted my late Mom, Milly, & my Dad, Gene, and wished they could have experienced it with me. Secondly, as an out of work professional who thot as a young man emceeing retirement parties how great it would be to retire and be recognized for a job well-done, it brings me pleasure to see a great professional go out on top and receive recognition for a job well-done.
Thank you Curt for a “job well-done”. Bob
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Curt,
I first saw you pitch for the Rochester Red Wings and have followed your career ever since. As a lifelong Red Sox fan I was overjoyed when you joined them; and more than that I always respected the way you played the game and acted off of the field. Too many players (and people) today suffer from a lack of accountability. You talked the talk and walked the walk. Thanks for everything…
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:01 pm
Hey Curt,
You’re the man. I only hope that the Boston fans don’t forget what you did for the red sox and the suffering baseball fans in this city. As an athlete you’ve been entertaining to watch and refreshing to listen to. I obviously don’t know you personally but as a person you seem like a classy, respectable individual as well. Keep your opinions coming, I love it…I know you will. I only wish more professional athletes spoke their mind like you do. You keep it real and don’t pretend to be anyone you aren’t. I truly respect that. Thanks for your contribution to 2 world championships with the sox. I wish you the best in your future endeavors.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:01 pm
Congratulations Curt! Happy retirement and God’s Blessings to you and the family!
Brian
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:01 pm
Curt,
Congratulations on your retirement and THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts! Thanks for helping to break the curse, for the excitement and joy you brought to our lives, for your charitable work, and especially for inspiration that you have given to countless youngsters who want to make baseball a part of their lives. I am sure this must be one of the most bittersweet moments of your life. Hopefully the following story will demonstrate the positive impact that you have had on all of us.
I want to share a story of how you, unknowingly, made a huge difference in the life of my son, Justin. In May 2007, my 12 year old was pitching for his LL team when a screaming line drive caught him right between the eyes. Major damage resulted, broken nose, severe bleeding, skull fracture, and minor but permanent brain damage. The ensuing weeks were harrowing with surgery, recovery, the loss of the sense of smell, etc. but with the grace of God and the unbelieveable, heroic, doctors and staff at Boston’s Children’s Hospital, and the courage of my son, he pulled through.
As he recovered he obviously seriously questioned whether he would ever want to play baseball, or sports, again. So I went online to find a gift that would keep him in touch with the game, remind him that players can come back from injury, and just help him feel better. That gift turned out to be a game-used ball from Game 6 of the 2004 ALCS. He knew right away the significance of that game and the extrordinary effort that a certain Boston pitcher made despite a serious ankle injury. The meaning of that gift helped him remain positive and focused during his recovery. The wow factor of holding that ball would take his mind completly off the pain.
As his fear subsided and he began to get better I asked him what he would like to do now that he suddenly wasn’t able to play. His answer was going online and finding cheap airline tickets to San Francisco to see the Sox play Oakland. Seeing the Sox outside of Fenway has always been a dream of his.
For some reason, as he stood no more than 10 feet from you as you warmed up on 6/7/07, I had the strange feeling that something big was going to happen. Of course, it did. But besides your performance that day the other big thing that happened was that as the ninth inning approached, my son decided he too was going to come back like that pitcher did for the Red Sox in the 2004 playoffs, you know that same guy pitching right in front of him at that moment.
Well Justin did recover 90%, and he did make it back to the mound in time to pitch for the LL All Stars. It was due to many things, his courage and determination for sure, but also due in no small way to the example and implied challenge that you provided without even realizing it.
Aside from the ball, he now owns the first base from that 6/7/07 game. They are prominently displayed in his room and looked to for inspiration whenever things get a little tough. They will be with him, providing that inspiration throughout his life.
So THANK YOU! And who knows hopefully someday he and I will be able to shake your hand and express our gratitude face to face, that would be the icing on this cake…
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:02 pm
As a Red Sox Fan, Thank you for the contributions that you made to the team and the program. As a baseball fan, Thank you for bringing some dignity and a work ethic to a game that is sometimes eclisped by excess and player abuse. I wish you and your family all of the best in the years to come.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:02 pm
As a Red Sox fan, all I can say is thank you for being truly one of the best to ever stand on that mound. As a father of two boys, I want to say thank you for being such a tremendous role model and inspiration for not only inspiring young ball players, but all young kids. Your ethics, professionalism, and determination to succeed deserves the utmost respect… you are what all MLB players should be!
Best of luck and God bless you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:02 pm
From one Curt to another, I tip my Red Sox cap to you! Thanks for going out there with the bloody sock, giving it your all and pushing the Sox over the top not once but twice. Your arrival changed the Boston culture from perennial doormat to winner.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:03 pm
Curt…
You have now completed a full circle. You started your career with the Sox (albeit in the minors) and now end it in a Sox uniform…an ending that seems fitting and predestined.
I may disgree with you on several viewpoints (politics being the main one), but by having a web presence, you’ve let us “get to know you” and in turn, made us feel like a “family” of sorts (proves what I say about disagreements, what family *doesn’t* have disagreements?)
I hope that this blog stays up, we can always use your insights on everything that occurs around us, whether it be about baseball or bailouts.
I hope now that #38 will become unofficially retired (like #14 was when Jim Ed hung ‘em up)at Fenway until you go into Cooperstown…then it will officially be hung up over the RF stands.
I’m not sure what to add next, since it seems everybody before me has thought along the same lines as I have. All I can say now is this.
Thank you for all you’ve done in the game and thank you as a Red Sox fan!
Scott Levison
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:03 pm
Curt Schilling,
If I have one true regret it would be that you did not start and finish your entire career in Boston. You should have and it would have been more remarkable then the career you now leave behind. You were one of the most feared competitors I have ever seen. To have been able to watch you pitch each and every year in Boston not would have only been a dream for me but it would have also made you even more cherished in the Boston area then you are now. I will always recall the Bloody sock with the most admiration possible. it was not about that one game , that sock was you about your hole entire career, you always gave it your all. Sometimes it did not look or even sound good, but as always it was your heart pouring out giving it your all. Thank you for an awesome ride. Your picture and the picture of your sock will always be on my wall, long after I am gone.
you are a Hall of Famer from head to toe!!!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:03 pm
you suck….big mouth so long thank goodness
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:03 pm
Thanks for the memories, Curt. While this announcement hardly comes as a surprise, I’m still sad to see you go. Will look forward to seeing your plaque in Cooperstown.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:03 pm
Kurt -
Thanks SO much for helping to give me the opportunity to lay WS pennants on the grave of my papa who was, by far, one of the biggest Sox fans out there.
Enjoy your retirement! Hope you’ll stay in MA!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:05 pm
Thanks for the memories! Best of luck in all you do!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:05 pm
wow what a poop nugget
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:06 pm
hey curt thanks for everything you went above and beyond and helped my favorite team to their first championship in 86 years!!! thanks again curt, and good luck in retirement!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:06 pm
Its about time. You finagled a contract last year, but yet never really played because of the injury you were “unaware of” when you signed on the dotted line. You’ve been retired for a year already, who are you kidding? Maybe now that you’re officially retired you can stop running your mouth about steroids, God, Manny, and everything else. Good riddance.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:07 pm
You are a big mouth bum. Just shut the F up already. That sock is fake. Later Loser.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:07 pm
Curt,
Congratulations on playing the game the way it was meant to be played. We fans up in Boston will never forget what you brought to our franchise and will be forever grateful for your efforts on the mound. Best of luck to you in retirement and in whatever it is that life after baseball throws your way.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:07 pm
I always hated you between the lines. Then again, I’m a Yankee fan, so it would seem you did your job rather well. Off the field, my sentiments towards you have been much different. I think you are an incredible competitor, a caring American, a family man, a Christian, and more than anything else, a true patriot. I hope you truly enjoy the next chapter of your life with your family, see a great deal of success with your philanthropy, and someday decide to become even more active in politics. Regardless, all the best.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:08 pm
Thanks for everything you did for Boston.
Good Luck
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:08 pm
Dear Curt~
I am a lifelong Yankee fan who lamented the day you went to Boston instead of coming to us. Thought you would have been the perfect leader of our staff after Roger Clemens retired (the first time) after 2003.
You were a great pitcher that I long admired and respected, even when you were killing us with zeros for AZ in 2001 and for BOS in 2004.
Plus, you are a believer in Jesus and not ashamed of that. That’s not easy in today’s world. Kudos to you.
God bless you and your family, and all your future pursuits, especially in your work to stamp out ALS!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:09 pm
Thank you Curt, and I don’t just mean for the end of the pain for all of us everywhere in the world. Thanks for being such a class act through your career at every step of the way. YOU are the example of why this game is so beautiful and a perfect role model of the kind of people who make it so. I’m very grateful to you sir, and I’m not alone.
Duane W. Berke
Red Deer, Alberta
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:10 pm
Does this mean you will devote more time for ASL?
Thanks for your contribution to the game, Kurt.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:10 pm
A fan of baseball played yhe right way. I was not a fan of any of the teams you pitched for; however, I always tied to watch your games.W/L were not important…..STYLE was!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:10 pm
Curt, I actually bought your Jersey for my daughter for Christmas, can you believe it? Now you are gone, it is was not unexpected but it is sad. Like I said before you were the BLoody Red Sock, cherished forever. Now where can I get your Jersey Autographed for her? rmears
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Mr. Schilling, I just wanted to say that I’ve truly appreciated your career. You came onto the scene, for me, in 1993 with the Phillies the year you guys ruined our dream season here in Atlanta, and I’ve always admired the guttiness you displayed and your passion for the game and life in general. Regardless of how the voters go, you’ll always be a Hall of Famer in my book.
Best wishes to you and the family, and may your days continue to be filled with a passion for helping others. I admire you a great deal for your public testimony of faith and also for your persistent work with ALS. Please don’t ever stop fighting the good fight…
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Thank you Schil.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:12 pm
Thanks for the years in Boston Curt!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:12 pm
Curt – Your mouth is as famous as your arm. Retire both.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:14 pm
Thanks for the Memories Schill. You’ll be truly missed and were atrue professional. Left you a little love on my blog as well. Hope to keep hearng you on WEEI
http://izzopac.blogspot.com/2009/03/thanks-for-he-memories-curt.html
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:14 pm
Thank you for everything you gave and brought to Boston.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:15 pm
Curt,
Thanks for all you did with the Sox! You are the an inspiration in all you do with your “Curts Pitch for ALS”.
Have a great retirement, and remember-you were the one that helped us break that no-world-series-win-since 1918-slump ( I don’t believe in curses) You gave the Red Sox 3 great years, Plus you kicked butt on the Yankees in the 2001 World Series!
Have a wonderful Retirement.
~Linda
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:15 pm
CURT:
Thanks for being a man of your word….for the miracles you helped to create in 2004, 2007 and for all the great regular season games in between. And thank you for all the work you’ve done and continue to do for ALS and in the community.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:16 pm
Thanks for everything Curt…you are one of the best big game pitchers ever and as a Sox fan I am forever grateful for all you’ve done for this team and its fans. God Bless and good luck.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:17 pm
Curt, we retired our tongue in cheek website shortly after you asked us to remove a pic. Despite having some fun at your expense, I’ll never forget the bloody sock and your courageous sacrifice in 2004. “You’ll never buy a beer in Boston” thanks for the “ammunition” for our goofy blog, and congrats on a HOF career. (should be)
Shea
The defunct dearcurt.com
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:17 pm
THANKS!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:17 pm
You fulfilled our dreams and were the hero of our hearts. It was clear that you respected and loved the game as we did. You made all of the pain worth it. May you remain a part of our lives. Thank you for the history which will always be present in our minds.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:18 pm
Four World Series, three World Championships. That there are men with plaques in Cooperstown who never experienced one — and I was able to be on three teams over seven years that won it all — is another “beyond my wildest dreams” set of memories I’ll take with me.
Stop pleading your cause. even if you are a hall of famer let the powers that be decide, and stop begging on your blog.
Your to loud
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:18 pm
What you did for the Sox will be remembered well into the next century, especially in light of the era in which you pitched. I wish you the best of luck in your gaming venture, charity work, etc. On a humorous note, does this mean that CHB has to retire too?
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:18 pm
As a Yankee fan I’m glad we won’t be facing you anymore, as a baseball fan it’s a really sad day. I haven’t always agreed with some of the things you’ve said in the past, but I always respected your right to say them. Thanks for some great memories and some not so nice ones (2001 WS). I look forward to your HoF induction speech one day. From one ASL gamer to another, all the best to you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:20 pm
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES. WE WILL NEVER FORGET WHAT YOU HAVE DONE FOR THE ENTIRE RED SOX NATION!!! I HOPE THAT YOU WILL BE A PITCHING COACH OR SOMETHING LIKE THAT FOR THE BOSOX, AND CONTINUE YOUR WORK WITH ALS. WE WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:21 pm
Curt,
My mom passed away in Aug of 04, a life long Red Sox fan. When Foulke tossed the ball for the finale out my wife and I cried we were so happy, and I know my mom was smiling too. My kids all got to experience something that mom never had a chance to wittness for herself. All true fans of the sox can never thank you enough for making our dream come true.
The word roll model gets tossed around far to easily now-a-days, but I feel the real meaning of the word implies a person that lets integrity guide his action. It refers to a person that is guided by a sense of right and wrong and would never compromise those convictions. That being said, You Curt have been nothing less to the sport you have loved and the people who love the sport. We thank you for everything you gave us the fans and the sport we love. It has been an honor for this fan to be able to say they lived in the era of Curt Schilling. The men of Cooperstown will approve when the day comes for you to take your place among them.
Sincerely,
A Fan
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:21 pm
Thanks for everything, Curt! While I didn’t agree with you on too many topics other than baseball, you were just what the Sox needed in 2004! You have been a class act all the way – enjoy every moment of your retirement. You’ve earned it!
Sandy in NH
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:21 pm
not a fan BUT!, I was never a fan of yours while you played because you never played for the Braves. But you are without a doubt the one player in the majors that I have come to respect the most. You are a throwback, the Don Drysdale, Bob Gibson of your era. You were feared, honest, outspoken when necessary (and always for the betterment of the game) and you showed up on gameday ready to give everything. Young players today should look to guys like you as role models. Baseball needs more guys like you and a lot less of the ME, ME, ME guys.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:23 pm
This is a great day in baseball. You are finally retiring. I have been waiting for this for a long time. No more stupid comments coming out of left field. No more snide remarks about other players or sticking your big nose in places it doesn’t belong.I remember when you started with the bumsox and i remember hearing that you were from Pa.but at the super bowl you were wearing a Patriots jersey…all of a sudden you are a Pats fan????? I guess signing a new contract for a lot of money might convince me to root for a new team too…..NOT!!!….two words…suck up!!!!!! I am a huge Yankee fan and there is NOTHING I hate more in this world than the bumsox but I think it is ridiculous for you and all the desperate boston fans to think that you were a savior of that ‘04 team.You were NOT the sole reason that you won. As much as I can’t stand those players, there were players such as Manny,Pedro,Varitek,Damon,Wakefield(who got blasted by Aaron Boone in ‘03),that had gone through the heartache of losing to the Yankees year after year and to think that you just came in and took care of 86 years of misery on your own is arrogant at the least.Bloody sock??? give me a break they should have given you an oscar for that!! Although you may have been a good player you were most of the time cocky and arrogant. I am so glad that I don’t have to see you on any mound anywhere ever again. One last thing before I go…..I think I speak for all Yankee fans and all New Yorkers when I say whats better than shutting up 60,000 Yankee fans? Retiring one washed up,cocky,arrogant,FORMER,bosox pitcher…once again we come out on top. SCREW redsox nation???? WE GOT YANKEES UNIVERSE!!!!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:25 pm
I can’t resist saying thank you. It’s obvious from the comments above, but I’ll add mine to the list as well. As a transplanted Yankee fan, it only took one game at Fenway in the fall of 1981 to become hooked. Then in the fall of 1986 I really learned what it was like to be a Red Sox fan. So while I didn’t necessarily suffer as long as many others, I was totally on board and totally impressed with your performance in 2004 to finally bring it home after all those years. 2007 was some nice icing on the cake.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:25 pm
Curt,
Thanks for everything. RSN will never forget you.
Chris in Virginia
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:25 pm
Hey Shil……
All I can think to say is simply …”thanks”. We cheered for you as a family and the memories we have are forever.
You are going out on top!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:26 pm
Congratulations on a remarkable career. A great what-if for Orioles fan will always be: what if they hadn’t made the Glenn Davis trade. What’s next? Maybe overseeing a revival of Statis Pro baseball?
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:27 pm
[...] “zero regrets,” former Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling announced his retirement Monday morning on his official [...]
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:27 pm
Curt,
Congratulations on a great career and thank you for being the field general we needed in ‘04. I can’t wait to take my son to see your plaque in Cooperstown. In an area of power-agents, steroid-swollen stat lines, and PR conscious divas you were a power-pitcher, honest competitor, and someone we could count on to tell us the truth (wether we wanted to hear it or not). Best of luck!
Mike
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:27 pm
On behalf of the Nation thank you Curt.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:28 pm
THANK YOU JESUS!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:29 pm
Thank you for being part of the memories that we hold so close to our hearts. It was such a pleasure to watch you compete. God Bless.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:29 pm
Shut the hell up Schilling, Bonds has complete ownage on you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:29 pm
Thanks for your passion for the game . Enjoy your retirement. You should have seen the look on my dads face when the red sox won it all in 2004 .That look on his face i will forever cherish . You also brought that smile to his face . I can still remember watching on TV that ford commercial that you said “lets go. we need to break that 84 year old curse” i will remember that forever. Go enjoy life with your family you deserve it . The Stevens family
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Curt, I always thought that you were a little outspoken for an athlete, but between the lines, I have as much respect for you as any other athlete. Your actions on the field always demonstrated a passion for the game, and for your teammates. Thank you for the bloody sock, 2004, and 2007. I was lucky enough to get tickets to the 2007 ALDS when you pitched against Anaheim. Man you looked dominant that day, even from way up in right field. I appreciate what you did for Red Sox Nation, and even more so, what you do with your foundation. Many blessings.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:30 pm
God Bless Mr. Schilling
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Curt – Thanks for the memories does not even begin to sum up what I am thinking at this moment. Like many people, I’ve been a fan of yours for many many years. Only I was an avid Curt Shilling fan while being the lucky daughter of a Los Angeles Dodgers season ticket holder. I’ve missed you coming into Dodger Stadium and dominating some of our best players. No disrespect to my boys in blue…when you watch 60+ games a season in person, sometimes the best games you see are pitched by the other team. I would fight, beg and plead with my sister to trade tickets with me when I knew you were pitching! Congratulations for everything you’ve ever accomplished…I’ve never been fortunate enough to meet you…but you’ll always be on my list of “Ten people I’d like to have dinner with” Five years and counting…
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:32 pm
Curt,
As a life long Red Sox fan, I can only say thank you. Thank you for the wonderful years here in Boston, and for two World Championships. I want to congratulate you on a wonderful career and wish you nothing but the best in the future. I hope to see you in Cooperstown down the road.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:32 pm
Thanks to you Curt Schilling and to your family for making what was at the time a tough call to come to Boston. It sure paid off. I hope that in time the Hall returns our most sacred sports relic, the blood red sock, to the cathedral of baseball Fenway Park. I wish for the sock to be replaced with your Hall of Fame plaque. Thanks for the sacrifices you made to give us all our ultimate sports memory.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:32 pm
Curt,
Thanks for giving it everything you had all these years. Your departure from Philly was regretted, but also respected. More than anything I’m glad you were able to find someplace that gave you the opportunity to win it all.
Good luck out there.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:33 pm
I will always remember the night of the announcement, when you agreed to come to Boston. I was with my buddies and we went nuts. We knew a championship was coming with you. As usual, you delivered. I won’t call you a hero, because heroes don’t play children’s games. They go to places like Iraq. But I will call you a joy to watch and someone I admire. Don’t ever change.
Here’s to wishing you a relaxing retirement and thanks for the memories.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:34 pm
To Curt,
Thanks for the memories! I contribute each year to ALS. Enjoy your retirement. You’re a class act, and hope to meet you someday. I even name a Sox Bear “Curt”. Enjoy the rest of the days with your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:34 pm
Thanks, Curt, for playing such a significant role in both of our WS titles. We in RSN will always be grateful. I have always admired your work off the field as well as on it–your work for our troops, and for fighting ALS. God Bless, and thanks.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:35 pm
Curt,
As a lifelong Red Sox fan, and one who appreciates the dedication you have always shown, THANK YOU!!!
Many folks will not appreciate you for being more than who they saw on the diamond. There are a rare, few, professional athletes, (but more prevalent in Boston than anywhere else), that I can point out to my children as being role models and people whose actions off the field speak as loudly as those on it. Your support of noble causes such as ALS, our Soldiers, and the notion that “Nobody is bigger than the game”, has always endeared you to me. It is refreshing to hear someone call a spade, a spade and to take the criticism as well as the praise. In the end, you have always been true to your fans, your family, your profession, and most importantly, yourself.
May your retirement be as rewarding to you as your career has been to your legions of fans.
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, and comes up short again and again, who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”
Thanks #38…….. “The Curse is history”
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:35 pm
don’t let the door hit you on the way out. And please, no more WEEI appearances. No more verbal diarrhea. NO MORE CURT.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:38 pm
Curt,
No regrets? How about campaigning for Bush in 2004? You went from hero to zero for millions of your fans. I hope you stay off the campaign trial so we can remember you for your career achievements and not for your political endorsements.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:40 pm
Thanks, Curt!
As a Red Sox fan I will be forever grateful to you for the sacrifices you made to bring the 2004 season to such an unforgettable end. Looking forward to hearing more of you on the radio; keep on calling ‘em as you see ‘em!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:41 pm
Was it Heinze or Hunts you smeared on your sock that game? Will the ketchup bottle be in the Hall of Fame?
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:42 pm
Curt, very best to you… There were rumors earlier this year that you might be coming to the Cubs. I only wish it were 5 years ago – we could have definately used you then! Best wishes to you & your family…
http://blog.cubhub.net/2009/03/23/no-schilling-for-cubs/
-Clark
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:42 pm
Curt, I haven’t commented on your blog before, but I wanted to give a heartfelt “Thank You” for all you did in Boston. ‘04 wouldn’t have happened without you – you and Francona were the pieces we were missing in ‘03. Enjoy your retirement, and enjoy your family!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:43 pm
Curt: For 2004 and 2007, many thanks. As a lifelong Red Sox fan, I will always be truly thankful to you for your performance in 2004. Enjoy your time with you family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:44 pm
Hey Windbag! So long! Hopefully this will be the last time we have to hear your self-serving jack@ss opinions. Good pitcher? Sure, I’ll give you your due, but your constant stupidity either in print or on the mic was like nails on a chalkboard. Your constant lack of respect for not only your peers(and alot of better players than you), but the legends of the game is rediculous. What boggles the mind is that how can a man who does such SELFLESS things off the mound with charities and all of that be such a complete TOOL in all else? In closing, it’s good to see you finally go, and I hope with all sincerity that next time the remarkable surgical procedure that you undergo will be to suture your big fat mouth shut. Y.M.B.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:44 pm
Schill:
Thanks for the memories and you are a future hall of famer. Hold your head high and know you made every baseball fan proud, except those in New York! Be blessed and may God contiue to bless your family. In Christ’s love from Texas.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:45 pm
Thanks for the memories, Curt. Your tenacity for the game is unmatched and it was a pleasure to watch you play for my favorite team, the Red Sox.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:47 pm
Thank you Curt, A true man of his word you are and I for one am grateful that you came to Boston and assisted in Breaking the Curse!!! I will never forget that tv commercial you did, May god be with you in your Future!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:48 pm
Curt,
I will never forget the courage and determination you showed during the “Blood Sock” game. Good to know there are some who still care about the game and the fans. Thank you. Be well.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Thanks for everything Curt. You will always be a Phillie…
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Curt,
I will never forget the courage and determination you showed during the “Bloody Sock” game. Good to know there are some who still care about the game and the fans. Thank you. Be well.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:50 pm
Thanks, for coming through on your ‘04 promise. I only wish my dad had lived to see it. In this era of doubt your integrity and fortitude should propel you to Cooperstown. All the best.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:50 pm
You are an inspiration to us all. Thank you for being there for our beloved Sox! What a thrill to have seen you play ball! God bless you and yours. You will never be forgotten.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:50 pm
…and everybody knows that Game 5 of the 1993 World Series was a much guttier effort on your part than that silly bloody sock game.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:50 pm
I am glad you will retire as a Red Sox; as it should be. Thanks for 2004 and 2007. You will always be known as one of only a few that finally got the Red Sox “over the hump.” Finally!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:51 pm
Dear Curt, I loved watching you pitch as I knew you had a passion for the game. You came here to break the CURSE and did! Thank you for the Championships!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:52 pm
Curt,
Thanks for the memories. You, Nolan Ryan and Cal Ripken have always my favorite three players in my lifetime. You deserve to be enshrined in Cooperstown despite not getting to 300 wins. It should either be 300 wins or dominance in multiple post-seasons. You were as good as they come in the clutch. I hope one day you get inducted into Cooperstown and CHB gives your introduction. Best of luck in your future endeavors.
Thanks,
Mike Jacobs
P.S. Keep up the political postings. I love watching liberals whine on your comments section.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:52 pm
Thanks for the memories, you are a class act my friend. Thanks for bring a championship to Arizona! I was cheering for you when you went to bean town also! You are a top notice performer and hats off to you!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:52 pm
Curt, as a Red Sox fan for my 29 years on this planed i just wanted to say THANK YOU. I will always remember 2004 and 2007, and not just for the bloody sock. You showed so much courage taking the ball in that game. You are most definitely Hall of Fam worthy in my eyes, although my vote doesnt really count. I wish you the same success in your personal life as you did on the field, only more. May God bless you and your family for the sacrifices you all made, you are truly a role model. Once again all i can say is THANK YOU.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:52 pm
hey Curt–loved watching you in a Red Sox uniform–bless you in your most important job as you move forward, as a father and husband.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:53 pm
Well said Curt. Pretty amazing what God allows us to do with this life. It might be too personal, but what’s next? Thanks for representing Christ well!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:53 pm
Thank God that you chose now to retire. The party (GOP) needs you right now! Please keep us posted as to when you will be ready to run, you have the grass roots foundation in place already. We can’t have Palin on the front line and you, my son, are the annointed one!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:54 pm
It’s about time you hack – take ur red painted sock and shove it up ur arse
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:54 pm
Wishing you a wonderful retirement.
Thank you for all you did for the Red Sox.
Been missing you already.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:54 pm
Если бог не услышит меня в вышине –
Я молитвы свои обращу к сатане.
Если богу желанья мои неугодны –
Значит, дьявол внушает желания мне!
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:55 pm
oh yea and the red sox bite as well
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:56 pm
Thank you for the memories. You mean a lot to baseball. I’ll see you in Cooperstown.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:57 pm
Good… glad you’re done! Finally, I heard that was period juice in that sock.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:57 pm
Curt,
Thank you so much for all that you did, not only for the Red Sox, but for baseball as a whole. As a life long Red Sox fan, the joy that I felt, particularly on October 27, 2004 can never be duplicated. Gamer, dirt dog, warrior…thank you so much.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:57 pm
Mr. Schilling-
You are a class act and one of the few great men in sports today. Congratulations on your retirement and thank you for all that you did, not only throughout your career, but during your time in Philadelphia. With the exception of last season, ‘93 was the most magical thing i can remember. Also, thank you for the night on CSN in 1998 when you went head to head with Scott Boras about J.D. Drew not signing with the Phillies. As well, thank you for all your work with ALS.
Best wishes on a long and enjoyable retirement.
A long time Phillies and Schil Fan.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:58 pm
Thanks for the memories, Schil! You’re a class act. God bless.
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:59 pm
I loved rooting for you & our Redsox! 2004 Baby! Thanx Curt!
http://theconservativegardener.blogspot.com/
March 23rd, 2009 at 4:59 pm
When we saw the TV commercials of you on the side of the road in AZ waiting for the “perfect ride” (Ford) to take you to Boston to break an 86 year old curse, it gave us goosebumps as we smiled and said, “Wouldn’t it be something if that DID happen?” Well, it did, much to everyone’s amazement! It was almost as if you were predicting the future! You became our hero with your superhuman efforts during the playoffs, knowing that the hopes and dreams of RSN were riding on every pitch that left your hand. We owe you a tremendous debt of gratitude, for reversing the curse in 2004, and repeating the feat in 2007. You were respectful towards the fans and played your best every time you pitched.
You have a lovely family – take time now to enjoy each minute with them, and continue to do the good you do to raise awareness of ALS. You are a great baseball player, but even more, you are a great man. Congratulations on your retirement, enjoy, and we wish you all the best in the years to come!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Dear Curt,
I first want to establish that I’m a die hard Yankee fan (and Jets fan, at that). You broke my heart countless times this decade and I couldn’t stand you for it.
But even the enemy appreciates greatness. I am a fan of the Yankees second and a fan of baseball first. Some of the things you’ve accomplished at the highest level of the game are more than spectacular. You may not be loved by everyone. Personally, I’ve never been a fan of yours, but I respect the hell out of you when you take the mound. You will go down as one of the clutch performers in baseball history, one of the catalysts in ending a Championship drought in Boston, and even better, as a sure Hall of Famer.
In the agony of defeat, I wish you well in all your future endeavors. I consider myself privileged to have watched you pitch.
- Matt
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Thank you for ending our long nightmare in ‘04….Game Six in Yankee Stadium was priceless. We will forever be indebted to you…particularly us Sox fans behind enemy lines and within 15 miles of Yankee Stadium. You delivered on your word…thanks….
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Thank you Curt. For giving it your all everytime you went to the hill. For helping the Red Sox win two World series in four years. Enjoy your retirement.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Finally you’re leaving. I won’t lie and say I’m sorry to see you go. No more of ESPN posting you’re pseudo intelligent comments in the middle of a perfectly good SportCenter. Nobody cares what you think dude. You are a pitcher, not Winston Churchill although you might think of taking the same exit that he did. The only thing more consistent that the inconsistency of your career is your mouth. I hope you covered your tracks well when you juiced with the D-Backs, and Sox. Otherwise you’ll be exposed for the hypocrite that I know you are. As for that heroic bloody sock, I find it hard to believe that a multi-million dollar organization like the Red Sox can’t afford a tube sock. So long goody one-sock, it is with zero regret that I say, you won’t be missed.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Thanks for everything Curt or should I say Senator.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Thanks Curt,
Here is to you on your great carrer,thanks for doing what you set out to do when you became a sox.People here in Boston will allways remember you for that as well as all the good work you do for the charities here in Boston. We as red sox nation hope you stay a part of Boston thank you
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:01 pm
Curt,
Thanks for the memories, laughs, and all your hard work. You were a model player for the Red Sox and left an impact on New England. Most of all thank you for 2004, your courageous efforts helped lead to the suffering of millions of fans finally come to to a halt!
God Bless!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:01 pm
Go Vikings Go!!!!!
hahaha all the way baby.
Who is this Schilling guy anywayz
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:01 pm
Curt I cannot thank you enough for everything you’ve done for the Fenway Faithful, you’ve had a brilliant career, and amazing post season record. I hope one day to see you in Cooperstown. Thank you and God Bless!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Thanks for everything Curt! Hope you have alot of luck in the future! Thanks again!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:02 pm
This day had to come eventually. Curt’s candor and articulation are truly appreciated, one of the rare players who really seems like a fan of the game and who really appreciates the fans. I missed Seaver’s HOF induction but hope not to miss yours.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Curt,
First, a heartfelt Thank-You! As a lifelong Red Sox fan (40+ years), I’m grateful for your time in Boston and your overall contribution to the game.
I can only hope that as you retire from baseball as a player, you will continue to influence the game.
Best wishes to you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:03 pm
Red Sox suck, GO YANKEES!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:03 pm
i <3 u curt
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:03 pm
Curt,
Thanks so much for the memories. You had a great run and are a hall of famer in my book!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Thank you so much for the 2 gutsiest performances I have ever seen in 2004. I never thought I would see the Sox win a World Series in my lifetime (now two!) and my grandparents missed it by 6 months when they passed away. I will never forget what you did for as long as I live. Enjoy retirement, maybe you can go run marathon’s with Schonda. ha ha God bless you Curt.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:04 pm
As always,
Good Luck Brother
Fish
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Congratulations on the retirement Curt. I never was able to see you pitch in person for my D’Backs(stranded in Alabama), but I did have an opportunity to go to a D’Backs vs. Atlanta game in the 2001 season. It was an extremely cold game. I got to the stadium early, and was walking around when I heard a fastball sizzling through the air followed by a healthy smack into the catchers mitt. I looked over the wall, and there you were zinging some fastballs in an impromptu practice session. You had the goods then, and you still do with the class act you brought to baseball and life in general. May God richly bless you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Come on Curt, that’s a wimper for an ending. You brought a lot of passion and new thinking to Boston. What was possible and then making it happen with the flair of a Mohamid Ali or Reggie Jackson.
You brough us the visual of the bloody sock and just as importantly the direct direct access of your thoughts through this website. In short you carved a connection with the fans closer than maybe any other Boston athlete in the history of Boston sports.
Sure, other greats had more longevity in Boston and will be remembered before you. But none even came close to directly connecting to the people of Boston as you did. You took the possibilities of the internet and talk radio age and transformed it as much as you helped transform the Red Sox into World Series winners.
As I read your retirement post I was mostly thinking about what comes next for Curt and his connection to sports fans from all over the area. Others have come and gone as playing days receeded into memories past. Certainly you aren’t leaving now to be rolled out for banner raisings and the ceremonial first pitch?
Come on Curt, lets not end it this way. You trailblazed the connection with everyday folks. What comes next besides charity golf outings and the rubber chicken circut. Your legacy is Baseball. Don’t wonder too far.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:05 pm
curt,
Now will you please go away. I am a red sox fan and i couldnt even listen to your opinions anymore. If you would have just pitched and not spoke about everything under the sun I would have loved you.. U are the biggest blowhard to ever play the game.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:06 pm
Curt, yours is the only official Red Sox jersey I own. They are so expensive, but I knew I had to have one. I wear it around Philly and even Phillies fans shake their heads and say, “Why did we ever let him go?” You were a force to be reckoned with, you took the game seriously, and you treated it with respect. As a pitcher and a ball player, you had exactly what it took to be a legend. Thank you for everything.
Now when can we expect The Curt Schilling Show on MLB Network? You and Kevin Millar should each have a show. I’m waiting! LOL
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:06 pm
I thought you were going to pick the cubs or rays to play for this year?
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:06 pm
HOF my ass, rot in hell…
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:06 pm
From a Yankee fan – Schill, you were quite a competitor and you showed your desire and love for the game every time you stepped on the mound. But I think most of all between your charities and show of support for “K” ALS your even a better person and that trumps it all! Ill miss watching you ignite(or put out) a fire in the long awaited Yankee/Sox series throughout the Summer..Best of Luck
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:08 pm
I haven’t ever commented here, but I’m glad I found it.. I wanted to get at you before you’re gone for good. I can’t stand you. You have an arrogance about you that is completely undeserved. It hasn’t always been there though, you didn’t used to have it when I followed you in your early days… but all of a sudden you became a pompous asshole and I hate that. For someone with so many followers and a such a public voice, I wish you would have used it for good more often. I don’t care about your accomplishments on the field, as I think you failed as a man. Goodbye and good riddance.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:09 pm
I’m a lifelong Yankee fan, but this post makes me the newest Curt Schilling fan. Thank you for acknowledging just how fortunate you have been to play the beautiful game of baseball as a profession. It’s the dream of millions of kids across the world, so be happy and be proud.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Curt – I have always admired you. Not only for your pitching prowess and athleticism, but for your mental prowess and fearlessness. You have not only given everything out on the baseball playing field, but you give your all in the the playing field of life.
You are outspoken – okay, saying you are simply outspoken is like saying, well, just insert your Refrigerator Perry comment here – but you are also intelligently outspoken. I haven’t always agreed with you, but in my own little world, I listened to you, and agreed that I would disagree, and still be a fan.
I know what it’s like to hang oneself out there in a very public way by espoucing an unpopular stance on a subject or in a controversial occurrence – and you really find out quickly who your friends are. Friends are unconditional.
Friends are there in agreement, friends are there to support you even when they disagree.
We don’t know each other, but if our paths should ever cross, you can count on me not only as a fan, but as a friend.
Thanks for the history – thanks for being real.
Christy
P.S. – If asked to run, I would vote for you!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Your the man THANK YOU for everything
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Thanks Curt your a gamer! See you in Cooperstown!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Curt,
You showed alot of class through out your career. Thank you for the memories…. When you came to Boston you said you were going to bring a championship (you did) We will all be forever greatful.
Good luck in your future endeavors,
Sincerely, Jay H.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:11 pm
Curt,
I remember having butterflies in my stomach the day I found out the Sox had traded for you. And two championships later, it looks like the deal turned out pretty well for the Sox. Thanks for all the great memories and your contributions to the two greatest Red Sox teams of all time. I can’t wait to see you get elected to the hall of fame in a few years. Good luck and enjoy retirement.
Scott
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:12 pm
Curt
Thank you for your politics-yes, you are right, Your Christianity – again, right on, and your baseball- you did it all for the Red Sox 2004 and will never be forgotten.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:12 pm
Curt, politically speaking;………..I think you’re a readneck moron!! As for baseball (and I believe you’ll be in life)
you’re a ultimate warrior! I respected you with the Phillies, was impressed with Arizona but WAS AMAZED by the bloody sock world series. There’s a lot of talk going around about stats. and what it takes to get into the hall of fame. Trust me…………no trophy in ANY h.o.f. can measure the size of a mans heart. You were the BEST money
pitcher I EVER SAW! The same bulldog attitude that makes you a dork in politics served you SO WELL in baseball!!
There’s another song from the past………..Thanx For The Memories.
May God bless and keep you always
May Your wishes all come true
May you always do for others
What others do for you
May you bill a ladder to the stars. and climb on every rung.
And may you stay…….Forever young.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:13 pm
I am a native to Phoenix, Arizona, and have lived my whole life there. I have watched Arizona sports all my life, and we never won one title until 2001. For that, and your contribution to that title (the greatest world series of all time), I will forever be grateful. Thank you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:13 pm
Thanks for everything you do and did.
God Bless and good health to you and your family
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:13 pm
how about donating some of the money you took your last year with the sox
it was a total waste on their part and you even played them for the contract
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:14 pm
Thanks Curt for bringing Boston 2 World Series Championships.
Thank You for always speaking your mind, and showing up in the Big Games through out your Career.
You’ll always be remembered favorably here in Boston.
-Paul
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:14 pm
Curt,
You have been my favorite player since I was 12 years old and you were part of the 1993 Phillies. I was fortunate enough to get to see you pitch live and in person only once when you fanned five and went nine full innings against the Pirates in old Three Rivers Stadium on July 10, 1998. It was the best ball game I ever watched.
Thank you for everything… thank you for carrying the Phillies… thank you for helping me love the Red Sox again… thank you for beating the Yankees!
Best wishes,
Nathan R. Shrader
North Huntingdon, PA
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:14 pm
Thanks for everything you’ve brought to the game, Curt. You truly are a class act and will be missed. Thank you for everything you brought to the Sox, especially ‘04. See you in Cooperstown. God Bless and best of luck.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:14 pm
Thanks Curt for everything you did in baseball and outside of baseball.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:15 pm
THANXS FOR THE WONDERFUL MEMORIES.BASEBALL WILL MISS YOU. I KNOW I WILL. BEST OF LUCK TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. THANK YOU FOR SHUTTING UP 55,000 YANKEE FANS GOOD BLESS TAKE CARE. HALL OF FAME AROUND THE CORNER. YANKEES SUCK.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Thanks Curt for everything
THe sox could have never done it without you
Thanks again and GO SOX
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Mr. Schilling,
You are a great pitcher, but who cares, right (i.e., the grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever [Isa 40:8])? I always appeciated that you wore your faith in Christ on your sleeve (as we all should) and you were/are outspoken about the “hope that is within you.” You had an awesome career between the lines and I look forward to seeing/hearing about how the Lord will use to advance His kingdon.
Respectfully,
J. Waddell
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Curt-
Thank you for all the memories. Congratulations to you for all of your hard work, perseverence, trials, and successes over the years, and I wish you and your family well in all of your future pursuits.
Patrick
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:15 pm
I hope you continue to blog and continue to be so outspoken and charitable. It was a pleasure watching you play. As a fan, we try to identify with professional athletes and imagine ourselves in their cleats. For some reason, I found this easiest with you. Thanks Curt! – http://www.MLBHomeRun.com
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:16 pm
thank god you are hanging it up..now will u please put that bloody sock in your mouth and tape it…I just cant listen to you force your opinions down peoples throats anymore. While I cant help to admire your courage on the field your arrogance and ridiculous need for attention and selfishness took that all away…please go away for good..
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:17 pm
What’s the matter Curt? It’s funny how you were fine until they banned steroids and now you can’t pitch anymore,huh? You were an obvious steroid abuser and cheater, no mediocre, jelly arm, jerk like you plays 20 years without steroids. That combined with your cry-baby antics and crappy attitude,and giant ego and even gianter mouth makes you one of the most hated pitchers ever in baseball. Good luck making the Hall of Fame, the press hates you! And so does every fan outside of Filthadelphia. Good riddance you cheating, lying, Douchebag!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:17 pm
As long as you don’t go in the booth, do your best Mark McGwire impersonation and stay away from the booth you loudmouth. The bloody sock was FAKE.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:20 pm
Curt, from a lifelong Red Sox I have to say thank you! Dating back to your Phillie days I was always a fan. You were a throw back to an era when guys started the game and intended on finishing it. I was ecstatic when you joined the Sox and man did you ever deliver.
I know people have been critical of you for expressing your views. I always found it refreshing whether I agreed or disagreed and so much more interesting then a canned soundbite that you get from most athletes. You and your entire family have done a lot of good for this city and I wish you all the best.
Congratulations on a great career that should certainly put you in the hall of fame. Baseball needs more Curt Schillings!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:20 pm
Curt,
Thank you for all that you have done through your career, both on the field and off. You will always be one of my role models.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:21 pm
You are one of the best that I’ve ever seen A hard-working, well-deserved champion and…yes…quite the out-spoken individual. But I’ll miss you man…for all of the crap that you put us Yankees fans through, I’ll still miss you.
All the best, God Bless, and (hopefully) I’ll see you in Cooperstown sometime soon.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:21 pm
I have known Curt since 1993 while working with the Phillies. A true competitor and student of the game. He deserves nothing but praise for his body of work not to mention his charitable work for ALS. Thanks Curt!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:21 pm
From a White Sox fan and one who just loves the game… THANK YOU for doing it the right way! Hope to see you on the steps of Cooperstown in 5 years.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:21 pm
Hello… Mr President!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:22 pm
Say it not so. Another great leaving Baseball, speaking as a life long member of the Red Sox nation p would like to like to thank you one last time for ending 85 years of pain and suffering, by bringing a World championship home to Boston. Also it was refreshing to hear a player say what needed to be said about steroids use and other habits that brought great shame to baseball.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:22 pm
Curt, thanks for all you did for Sox fans. All of us in the Nation waited decades for 2004 and you and that team delivered for us. We’ll never forget you for that.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:22 pm
Curt,
My gram passed away last year at age 93. She was in my opinion the Red Sox biggest fan. Thanks to you and your teammates, She got to see two World Series wins in her last 4 years. She was the first person I called when you won.
Good luck and best wishes,
Billy B.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:23 pm
Curt:
I have been an avid Red Sox fan since 1975. I would normally not use the term heroic to describe a professional athlete, but there is no other term for what you did in 2004. I doubt there is another baseball player in the world who would risk the rest of his career on an untested surgical procedure to bring the team a world series championship. You did just that. The bloody sock is your badge of courage. I can’t possibly express my admiration for what you did, and how you changed the Red Sox culture. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, and forgive you for your political views!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:23 pm
Five words for you, Curt:THANK YOU, HALL OF FAME!!!!!!!!
God bless
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:24 pm
From a D’Backs fan who also roots for the Sawx…thanks for all you did and looking forward to the MMO.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:24 pm
Later days Curt. You and you big mouth will not be missed. You were a lousy disgustingly overpayed mediocre pitcher. The whole bloody sock was joke and only the village idiots of Boston believe any of it. Take your big mouth and your multi-millions and get the hell out of my life, and SHUT UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:25 pm
curt,
as a sox fan I hate to lose a guy who was a good pitcher..but i am glad we dont have to listen to your self-righteous bs and religious propoganda. you are an arrogant asshole and many of us out there even red sox fans are happy to see u go..just shut up curt
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:25 pm
Curt,
Thank you for being such a class act on and off the field. it was a real pleasure watching you pitch for the Sox. The Nation will always be grateful!!
May the Lord bless and keep you and your family as you enter the next phase of yor life. Thanks for the memories.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:25 pm
Finally calling it quits.. as a die hard Yankee fan I couldn’t be any more happy! To be quite honest with you Curt I despised you on the baseball field. I’d grind my teeth anytime I would hear your name. You got us in 01 and again in 04, and I still envy you for that, and probably always will! But hey, its the game of baseball and you did some great things, and some even greater things off the field. I wish you the best on what you decide to do with life, just please don’t find a way to beat the Yanks again!
P.S.- I’d probably take you over A-Rod any day, just thought i’d throw that out there!
-Nino
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:27 pm
Curt,
I am a lifelong Red Sox fan. I am a lifelong left leaning liberal democrat. I don’t believe in Jesus as god.
None of that affected my respect and admiration, one way or the other, for you and your philanthropic work outside baseball.
I remember during one of your press conferences when you first came to the Red Sox, you said that you were going to take the limited window of your fame and do the most good you could for others during that time. You were true to your word.
In an age of self-indulgent, narcissistic, pro athletes, you stood out. Not for your heroics on the field but for your heroics off the field.
You will long be remembered for your athletic accomplishments and your career will be measured by how many games you won or the number of strikeouts but your life will be measured by what you gave to others. That puts you in life’s hall of fame.
Best of luck for the rest of the journey.
Carl
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:27 pm
As a life-long Yankees fan, I salute you and wish you well. At the end of the day, and your career, you got done everything you needed to do and won when it seemed you couldn’t.
I defer to Red Sox fans, but it seemed to me that the best rivalry in baseball got a lot better and a lot sharper (and damn sight less successful for my Pinstripers) after you refined the ablility to pahk your carh on Harvarhd Square.
Your commercial for the Ford F-150 and the classic ‘wicked hard’ Dunkin Donuts spots you worked on that spring before your first season made me smile in much the way as when you pitched agains us, you made me squirm.
I hope you make it to Cooperstown–your game changing impact in the Red Sox/Yankees rivalry alone should qualify you. Lots of folks don’t like you-and I guess I’m in that number. But I always respected you–don’t recall you as an Oriole or as an Astro, but do remember you as a Phillie, a Diamondback and a Red Sox. You always gave as good as you got and sometimes better.
Best wishes for every continuing success–you and your family deserve nothing less than the best.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:28 pm
Thanks Curt, A true gamer.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:31 pm
Thanks to the best big game pitcher ever! 2004 brought Red Sox fans across the nation something that was long overdo. Good luck to you and your family in your years ahead.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:31 pm
Curt, you are truly one of a kind. Your heart, determination and sacrifice can not be matched. You are truly a great individual. Congratulations!, on an outstanding career. You are a Hall of Famer. You will be greatly missed. I for one was rooting for your career to continue. You are going out on top. I’m hopeful that you will continue to offer your brillant insights about a truly remarkable and extremely difficult game to play. You have greatly enhanced our appreciation for the great game of Baseball. I wish you the utmost of success and happiness for years to come.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:31 pm
Thank you so much Curt for finally bringing two championships to Boston. But most of all thank you for giving thanks to God and his son Jesus who laid down his life for us. That is what I want my kids to see. I want them to see how a guy like you with so much talent has his heart in the right place in a world where there is so much Godlessness. It’s not about religion, it’s about truth. You ended so much disappoinment for Red Sox fans. I for one will never forget how you went out there with your tendon stitched in place in order to pitch for us.
Your a great dad and a good man! Good luck to you and your family.
Appreciatively,
Rob S.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:32 pm
curt,you brought redsox nation so much pride and enjoyment.. thank you for believing it could be done here. mike
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:32 pm
Mr. Schilling, congratulations on a brilliant career in baseball and in life. Being in the public eye constantly as you were is hard enough, being the professional that you are, and providing us with your passion for the love of the game, is and will always be inspirational to everyone that has seen you when the going got tough. You are and always have been a great role model for anyone who has had a goal in life. We wish you the best. To the greatest yankee killer since Bill Lee! Best of luck in the future, and if you come back in mid-season, please don’t take the yankees tempting offer.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:34 pm
Curt,
Thanks for everything you’ve given. You’ll be joining your sock in Cooperstown soon.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:34 pm
In these days of rampant steroid use, you’ve always been one of the few that we could point out to our children and say, “See, you can do it without drugs”.
As a long-time Red Sox fan, thank-you for the memories.
Happy retirement Curt and God Bless you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:35 pm
Schilling –
You never pitched for any of my favorite teams or in my hometown. We don’t share the same beliefs about many things.
But I always dug watching you pitch and always dug how determined you were on the mound. Thanks for some cool memories.
I know we’ll see you in five years when your jersey is hung in Cooperstown.
Paul
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:36 pm
You Boston fans make me want to puke! The bloody sock was a fake, or more likely Curt was on his period that week! The guy is not a hero! Hero’s are fighting wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Schilling is a loud mouthed pussy who would never lift a finger to help anybody besides himself. Calling this jerk a hero really pisses me off! He’s an overpayed baby, and he plays a childs game for millions. What in the hell s heroic about that? Put a sock in it Bean-town bozo’s. I’ll lauh every time you get rejected by the HOF voter because ou are such a jerk! No Hall of fame for you! Hall of jerkoffs for sure. Piss off A-hole!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:36 pm
Thank you Curt,
For having the heart of a champion and the cajones of a lion. I now have to break the news to my 7 year old, he doesn’t take bad news well, and you are his favorite. 2004 will always be your most glorious moment. And its nice to see some Yankee fans giving you praise. Next stop Cooperstown, and maybe with luck the U.S. Senate, we need an honest man there. Good luck and best wishes.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:36 pm
Thanks, Curt, for everything.
Actually, there’s one more thing you can do. Run for United States Senator from Massachusetts. While you deserve to pursue whatever inspires, we need you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:37 pm
curt,
later douche you are the biggest loudmouth know it all to ever play the game. Class is a guy like Cal Ripkin who went out played the game shut the f up and didnt have a god complex and a child like need for attention..you do not have class and are a loudmouth dick who was despised by your teammates and hated throughout the league and the league is much better for your departure…thanks for going away douche
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:37 pm
As a lifelong Red Sox fan, I appreciate all you brought to Boston as a player and competitior. The World Series titles in 2004 and 2007 were something I thought I’d never see. You gave everything you had every time you were handed the ball. Best of luck in your retirement. I hope to see your plaque enshrined in Cooperstown when I visit in the future.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:37 pm
Thanks Curt. I grew up a Tigers fan and didnt get to see a whole lot of you in person but you gave me some great baseball memories anyway. good luck in your future ventures.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:38 pm
Curt: Thanks for playing a huge part in the most exciting Red Sox Baseball of my lifetime. Bless you and your family. Hope you guys continue to live here. It will always be nice to see you around the area.
Look forward to your induction and of course that Big Ol Number 38 out in Right Field!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:38 pm
Curt, you are truly one of the greatest players the Red Sox were lucky enough to ever had. You gave so much of yourself to this sport and this town, and no true Red Sox fan will ever forget your bloody sock. 2004 wouldn’t have happened without you, your pitching, or the hope you gave this city. Thank you for everything. Have a happy retirement, and God bless.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:39 pm
Who the hell are you kidding.You quit ’cause you suck and you know it.Bloody sock,my ass.And we will not be seeing you soon in the hall.You will be like Rice.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:40 pm
curt: as a life long phillies fan i want to say thank you for your time here, and your honesty to the media and fans through out your time in baseball. although i must say i truly wish you could have finished the job and your career here. and although joe carter killed my childhood you rejuvenated my passion for baseball in 2004. game 6 of the alcs is still the best game pitched ive ever seen. congrats again on your career and i hope to see you in cooperstown some day
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:40 pm
As someone whose childhood was cut short in 1986, I have to thank you for what was the gutsiest performance I’ve ever seen in sports. Someday I’ll tell my grandkids about what you did and what it means. Thank you for giving so much to our town and our team and always being honest to the fans along the way. I hope we still see more of you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:41 pm
Mr. Schilling, first off I want to thank you for 2004 and all the great memories you have given us (the fans). Over the years you have been criticized for being honest and speaking your mind, well that is what makes you so great. I love hearing your input on everything baseball related. You played the game the right and did it without the drugs like majority of the players in todays game. IN MY EYES YOU ARE A FIRST BALLOT HALL OF FAMER. I am a 16 year old, I play baseball and you are my idol. Your not only a phenomenal talent on the field, but an amazing person off. You have the ALS charity. We need to fight this terrible disease and you have been a huge contributor in looking for a cure. Thank you for everything Mr. Schilling. You played for the Orioles, Astros, Phillies, Diamondbacks and Red Sox. When and not IF but WHEN you go into the Hall of Fame it should be as a Red Sox. You did more for this franchise than any player did in 86 years. We, the fans, are grateful to you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:42 pm
Thanks Curt for all the great memories, however I agree it’’s time for you and your family to enjoy eachother. Life has been proven to be to short .
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:42 pm
Thanks Curt. I became a Red Sox fan in 2004 and watching you pitch during that year was incrediably exciting. I am still a huge Red Sox fan and want to thank you for your love of baseball. Our whole family are fans of yours. Enjoy retirement! Thanks for 2004!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:42 pm
Schill, Thanks for the great memories and helping to win 2 Rings. I will never forget the “Bloody Sock Game”. It will go down as one of the best Red Sox games in history. I hope in 5 years I will be attending your induction ceremony into Cooperstown because you belong in the HOF. Good Luck to you and you family in the future. Hope to see you around Fenway!
All the Best,
Steve
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:43 pm
Curt, please suck my balls.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:44 pm
Curt my ass is filled with little african babies.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:44 pm
A MILLION thanks for your years in Boston! You’re the best!! Ann
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:44 pm
Thanks Curt for the Red Sox years, the baseball years and also for the MMP relationship, which saved The Gamers. Best of luck.
ER
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:45 pm
i am a life long sox fan and I have to say good riddance to curt u loud mouth arrogant prick..i appreciate what u did on the field but i really dislike you off the field..u are the biggest loud-mouth blowhard in the league and I tried but your personality just makes it impossible to like you..go sox
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:45 pm
Congrats on a great career. We’ll see you in five years at the Hall of fame ceremony.
For that idiot Yankee fan “Dan”, it’s plethora not pluthra.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:45 pm
Dear Curt,
Your smiles and waves over the last several years are a happy memory for me. Thank you for them.
Our family, Gary and I — Plus our daughter, Melissa, her husband, David and our very special granddaughter, Emma Grace are enjoying living in Wyoming, OHIO — for the last year. Of course, I miss greeting “the boys” to Fenway Park…but, I am praying for all of them and each of them — from afar. I really enjoyed making the cookies for the players…in 2004, I made over 5,000 cookies for the Red Sox players…in our studio apartment in Downtown Boston…I loved every minute of my time serving the Red Sox in this way…and especially enjoyed the hugs, smiles and greetings from “the boys.” Please enjoy your family now — and someday you’ll be like us and enjoy the “grands.” It’s a really wonderful time in our lives. God Be With you and your family…and I’ll continue to pray for the Red Sox … as Emma (who was four on Christmas Day) calls them…”Momma’s Boys”. She calls me Momma. Thank you for all you do for ALS…a friend from my high school, Mike Cipriano, has been diagnosed…he’s in the fight. He loves the Red Sox, too. Love, Lois R. Griswold (Former TEAM “Mom” to the Boston Red Sox — 12 years — 1996 – 2007 — until moving to OHIO on April 21, 2008.) We love our new home and you or any of the Sox will be welcomed guests if you ever travel this way…we live within a few miles of where Kevin Youkilis grew up.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:46 pm
All I can say is thanks, thanks for all you did for the team I love. #38 will live forever God Bless
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:47 pm
Bravo Mr. Schilling – Bravo !!!!! Best of luck and hope you stick around the area at least part of the time.
Men of honor are hard to come by these days.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:47 pm
Don’t let the door hit you in the a$$ on the way out!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:47 pm
Curt- Thank you for 2 World Series in Boston. For always keeping it real and for never being boring. Will miss seeing you out there in Fenway. Enjoy retirement and time spent with your lovely family. God speed!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:48 pm
I hope that you enjoy your time retired and i think that you are cutting yourself short of what you gave to baseball. When the Red Sox got rid of Babe Ruth they were getting rid of one of the best pitchers. Little did they know that it would take an even better pitcher to end what lasted for 86 years. You changed the face of baseball when you pitched your heart out on one ankle. You gave all Red Sox fans a sense of hope that anything is possible. You are the reason the Red Sox are one of the model franchises and it’s incredible what you have accomplished. I think i speak for all of baseball when i wish you the best of luck in the next chapter of your life.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:48 pm
Schill:
For all you have meant to Red Sox Nation, THANK YOU!!! Here’s hoping that you and your family hang around Beantown, where you should never have to buy drinks for the rest of your life!
David M. Benjamin
“Committed” Red Sox Fan since 1960…displaced to Cleveland…regular blogger on Ian Browne’s Brownie Points.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:48 pm
So long to MLB’s Klan Master!! Didn’t your career surged in your 30’s after a couple (several) arm surgeries during the Steroid Era? Yet you claim never to use steroids? Coincidence? Yeah right! Just like Hitler said: “The bigger the lie, the more people will believe it”. I will not be surprised when allegations about your steroid use come to light and are published. Your big mouth will not protect you from them but fortunately for you your extreme-right-wing conservative political connections probably will. BTW, way to earn that $8 million contract you pouted your way through negotiations last season. What’s next? AIG endorsements & Honorary Member of the Board of Directors?
Curt, don’t let the door hit you on your way out buddy!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:51 pm
Thank you for your 23 years of loving the game of baseball and all the memories you made for so many fans. Also, thank you for being a person young baseball players could look up to. For a youngster to have a role model is very important, especially today. My son is a high school pitcher and he loved watching you pitch and how you handled yourself as a team player.
Again, thank you for being a first class person and ball player. Enjoy retirement!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:51 pm
Mr. Schilling,
I want to thank-you for all the years you gave to the Red Sox for us finally breaking the curse….you did a great job while you were here and you should be proud of yourself…I know I am proud that you were a great pitcher and man…your family should be very proud of you…thanks for the 2 World Series wins…good luck to you in the future…a grateful fan
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:51 pm
Curt,
As a Red Sox fan who had endured much disappointment since 1975, I want to thank you for being part of the team that reversed the curse and that gave Red Sox fans back our pride once again. Taking the ball in Game 6 of the ALCS and Game 2 of the World Series in 2004 with the injury you had demonstrated the heart and soul that you brought to that team. Seeing the bloody sock in the special “World Champion” section at Cooperstown brought a tear to my eye just like when the Sox won the Championship. Enjoy retirement – you’ve earned it!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:51 pm
Don’t let the door hit you in the ass on the way out! I usually don’t bother with sports but this guy was the biggest idiot I’ve ever seen in 60 years of watching baseball. If he had any talent I could see why he would run his big mouth 24/7 but he’s not even a good pitcher. Certainly not Hall of Fame. The people of Boston are a little prejudiced and that’s okay. But the rest of this country hates you Curt and we will cheer this day! The most selfish boring loudmouth in baseball has retired, YES! Please Stay out of the booth nobody wants to hear that you baboon!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:52 pm
dear curt
thank you so much in helping bring a world series to boston twice. the first one was so special. my son and daughter and myself were sitting on the couch when the team won. it was great. you are a player who a lot of people can look up to. you are going to get a lot of email. i sure hope the red sox give you the send off you so deserve. thank you and thank your family for shareing you with red sox nation.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:52 pm
Thank you for bleeding for us in 2004!!! You inspired the team to never surrender. Without Men like you to lead by example and to never give up the world would be a darker place. Thanks for shining some light.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:52 pm
I have been a RS fan for most of my 60+ years. You have been one of the most inspirational and truly great players that the RS have had on the team. Not only did you do what you said you were going to do when you came here, you continued to always giving 100+% to the team, fans, and the ALS charity. I have enjoyed your honesty and applaud your outspokeness. I sure hope that you enter the Hall of Fame as a RS. Good luck in your future endeavors and hopefully you stay in Massachusetts!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:53 pm
Curt, thank you so much for helping us win the World Series in 2004. In perspective, baseball is only a game but I will never forget your performance in the playoffs that year. Truly awe-inspiring.
I also want to say that I look up to you for maintaining your strong faith in a career that seems to lead many astray. God bless you!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:53 pm
There are very few events, players, and places that transcend history. In the realm of baseball history, no fan of baseball could ever deny that you were not only a part of something as special as a Red Sox championship, but personified the act. Kudos on a career that will land you in the Hall. You played the game with every ounce of character it takes. Farewell.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:54 pm
Curt. Thanks for all the good times. You were and truly are one for the ages. Your love and passion for the game is unmatched, and as a fan, not only of the Red Sox, but of the game itself, please know that it is truly appreciated respected. Thank you for helping bring a World Series Title to Boston in my lifetime. I will be forever grateful for your perseverance and courage to step on that mound and give everything you had for us. I don’t think any of us could ever repay you. May your retirement and time spent with your family be the best of your life. Forever grateful…Chris
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:56 pm
C Ya Big Guy!! I remember the day you signed with Boston and seeing like the same moment that Truck Ad. I said at the time, the guy certainly brings excitement and attitude! and you never disappointed : )
Though you may have not single handily turned around the jinx, you sure did your part and then some!!
Best of luck to you and your family.
Your drinks should be on Boston Fans Always!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:56 pm
Dear Mr.Schillig,
Now as a freshman in high school, you remain my favorite player. I remember meeting you in second grade (2002) at pepper law firm in Philadelphia. You were raising money for the Lou Gehrig disease fund. You autographed your rookie card for me that I have sitting by my bedside. The smile and the 5 minutes with me has made me a better person and has changed my perception of professional ballplayers from then on always wearing 38, whether playing football or baseball. I remember when I was very little going to the ballpark watching you pitch at “The Vet” which was a terrible place to play, but with you and Scott Rolen’s play I will never forget watching games there. My dad bought tickets according to the days when you were pitching so we wouldn’t ever miss a start. The way you came on and off the field with that swagger hitting 98 some days on the gun was jaw-dropping and I haven’t seen a pitcher like you since. As a player and a person, you are truly my hero, as long as my sports career will last I will wear #38 proudly. Have a great retirement, you will always be looked at in my mind as the greatest pitcher and player in Philadelphia Phillies history.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:57 pm
everyones worst nightmare has come true curt is retiring and will move into the broadcast booth im f ing done if i have to listen to curt everynight what a beating that would be
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:58 pm
Mr. Schilling,
Thank you for everything you did for the game of baseball and the Boston Redsox over your great career. Good luck in your post-baseball endeavors and hopefully everyone can truly appreciate the Professional you are. 20 great years of baseball and one heck of an effort you lead to K-ALS.
God Bless,
Jeff
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:58 pm
Dear Curt,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. In January 2004 I was standing in a hospital room at Mass General with my 78 year old father. (He is the biggest Red Sox fan I have ever met.) NESN was announcing that the Sox had just signed Keith Foulke and my father, a tough, stoic man who was able to discuss all of the possible outcomes of this disease without getting emotional, turned to me with his eyes brimming with tears and said “They had better win one soon, I’m running out of time.” Happily, his surgery was successful and he witnessed the 2004 and 2007 WS Titles and is optimistic for the 2009 season. Last fall as the team headed into game 7 against Tampa, he wistfully said “I’d feel a lot better about this game if Schilling was pitching tonight.”
Aside from changing the culture around Fenway more than any other player, you have been a player that parents could be comfortable with their kids looking to as a role model. Your work for ALS, the SHADE foundation, and other charities has made me admire you more as a person than as a ballplayer.
May God bless you and your family. I hope all the happiness and joy you brought to the New England region is returned to you over your retirement.
See you in Cooperstown!
Steve
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:58 pm
Curt,
You came to Boston to win a World Series and you did! The best playoffs (2004) anyone could ever witness especially a Red Sox fan. Sorry to see you leave the game because you have a lot to offer younger ones coming into the game. You are one class act and I thank you for sharing it in Boston. Best to you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:58 pm
Thanks for breaking the curse
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:59 pm
Thank God. Finally this steroid ridden loud-mouthed fake bloody sock asshole is out of my life. Now Mr. Schilling GO TO HELL and Fuck yourself!
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:59 pm
Schilling, Mulholland, Greene, Jackson, Rivera…
You may have moved on to bigger and better things, but watching you and the rest of that 93 Phillies rotation and team play still stands as the highlight of my baseball fandom. Congrats on a stellar career and all the best in the years to come.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:59 pm
Curt,
Baseball has been a large part of my life whether I am watching or on the field. I can honestly say that you made watching games on TV so much more exciting and I appreciate everything you have done for the game. I’ll miss seeing you on the hill and you throwing the splitter that just seemed to fall right off the table. Good luck to you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:00 pm
To Curt and future generations of sox fans,
Before you came here Curt it was blah blah 86 years,blah, blah.
You arrived. and on the way to erasing this 86 year old curse you gave a region some peace of mind and some joy and some rest and the ability to sleep at night.
Curt it wasn’t the bloody sock, it was what the bloody sock stood for. Self Sacrifice,Courage,Leadership for the cause. A winning cause. And like the General that you are, this makes you a man whether the Sox won in 2004 or not. A true man.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:00 pm
Thanks for all the memories Curt. I really hope you continue to blog. Your gift of transparency and sincerity is needed.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:00 pm
Curt, Congratulations on the retirement and providing millions of people with memories that they will never forget. Thank you for putting your career on the line in 2004, and coming back strong in 2007 with a superb postseason.
Thank you!
- Mike, Fairfield,CT
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:01 pm
Thank you, do as you always do and ignore the media. For what you did, do, and continue to do for Boston and Red Sox fans makes you a hall of famer to all of us. Call me crazy but we all know without you I’d be burying my dad the same way grandma had to go. Cursed and depressed. Thanks and good luck.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:01 pm
curt,
we will miss u curt and your opinions
sincerely,
nobody
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:01 pm
Mr. Schilling,
Thanks for everything. Thanks for the two championships in Boston. Without you, we would still be waiting.
God bless you sir.
Here’s to you and your family for a wonderful future,
Roger Gonzalez
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:01 pm
Man Curt, what a career! Just reading all of these posts is amazing, you are a very lucky man and it is a tesatament to your greatness that the only negative posts are by (mostly) Yankee fans who are just happy to see you are done. Thank you again for ALL that you do and have done for the Sox, and for the charities. You are a hero, and I will never forget all that you have done. As Colin Cowherd says it is the HALL of FAME, so the numbers should not even matter, you were GREAT! So, a sure thing in my book!
Take care!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:02 pm
What you did in 2004 was truly amazing. 60 years from now, I’ll be telling whoever will listen. Boston loves you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:03 pm
Hello Curt,
First, please let me say a BIG “THANK YOU”, for being the catalyst in helping the Boston Red Sox win, not one but two MLB World Series Championships. I am a 54 yr old, born and raised in Maine, but now live in Georgia, who has been a Red Sox fan ever since I can remember, and I will never forget what you sacrificed to help the Red Sox win their 1st World Series Championship title in 2004. For us Red Sox fans, it was a long wait for this victory!
Secondly, I would like to wish you the best of luck in whatever GOD has in store for your future. Hopefully we will see and hear more from you, maybe either as a pitching coach for Boston or maybe as a baseball analyst on Fox Sports or some other Sports Newscast program.
Finally, I also wish you the best of luck in being inducted into the MLB Hall of Fame in 5 years. In the hearts of all Boston Red Sox fans [alias “Red Sox Nation”] and most all MLB fans, you deserve your place in the HOF.
Enjoy retirement and the extra time you can now share / spend with your family.
May GOD Bless you and your family.
Regards,
Joe in GA
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:04 pm
You are a true warrior of the game. I will never forget what you did for my Red Sox or the community. Please consider managing soon. The game needs people that can improve the character of the game. Guys like you need to be out there teaching the future players. God Bless.
David
Sandston, VA
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:04 pm
Congrats on a brilliant career. I say first-ballot hall-of-famer for sure!!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:05 pm
Congratulations on a great career. In addition, thank you for being an individual who is not afraid to speak his mind. Although I may not always agree, I have immense respect and admiration for a person who calls it the way they see it.
You have made this transplanted NY Mets fan in NH enjoy so many Red Sox games in the last few years… Thanks.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:06 pm
My favorite day of Curt Schilling’s career- this one!
Good riddance you bible-thumping blowhard asswipe. Go shove your bloody sock up your ass and light it on fire.
Finally baseball is rid on one of its biggest turds.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:06 pm
great career. you’ll def be a hall of famer. Good work thanks for all your seasons #38
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:06 pm
[...] first sentence of his blog entry today said it all: “Turn out the lights, the party’s over”. With that, Curt [...]
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:07 pm
You never played in front of the greatest fans in the world.
You played in front of losers in Philadelphia, transplants in Arizona, and drunks in Boston.
You are the single most overrated pitcher to ever play the game and you are completely irrelevant.
The only way you’re getting in the Hall is to purchase an admission ticket to go see all the great Yankees.
Peace.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:07 pm
A (REAL) class act
Thank You
Southern and Sox fan since birth
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:08 pm
Curt,
I have followed your career since your time in Philly. Thank you for many great moments. I just wish we could have gotten you a ring with the Phils.
I, and most of the true fans, wish you and your family well and a long life to you all.
Thank you again!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:08 pm
I sat behind the tarp for years and chatted with Shonda and Peggy (Morandini) and watched you play for the Phills like every game was your last game. I saw you come back the day after Gehrig was born and pitch, only to have to hand the ball over to another to finish the game and you held yourself accountable for not going 9 innings – when no one else would have put their feet on the mound. I saw you play catch with Gehrig when he was 2 on the turf on 1st base side before the live auction for ALS night, and how proud you were – it was awesome to see you be a Dad. I knew you had a seat reserved for your Dad for every game you pitched, and I always saw you as a wonderful man, not just a ball player. My best to you and Shonda and the kids…. what a wonderful prize to see you play the game, and in Phila no less!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:08 pm
this is a great day no more curt fuck u curt and ur opinions
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:08 pm
Next to Lefty, the best pitcher the Phillies have had the pleasure of throwing Ks for them in the last half century up to this last year. When you needed someone to be a stopper, #38 was there consistently. Outspoken when he needed to be, his requests for a team capable of winning the Series were met only after he left in 2000. and those of us in Philly could only watch and say what might have been.
Curt, enjoy your retirement.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:08 pm
Curt,
Thank you for retiring. I’m not really a fan but you had balls. Thanks for ‘04 and ‘07. I hate to admit it but the Red Sox couldn’t have done it with out you. And yes, you should be in Cooperstown.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:10 pm
Thanks for taking the mound with half an ankle,it was truly one of the most gutsiest performances in the history of sports. Thanks for everything you have given the Great city of Boston. Good Luck!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:10 pm
Give yourself credit, never mine religion.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:12 pm
Curt, Phillie fan, wish they would have kept you, we missed you in Philly….congrats on great career, see you around Chester County
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:12 pm
Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:12 pm
Thank you so much for all your hard work and dedication to the game. Above all, thank you for being a huge part in the team that finally won a World Championship (twice) in Boston. I think you really “get it”. Waiting year after year for the Sox to win was crushing, but well worth the wait. Congrats on an awesome career. Enjoy your family, have fun, and God Bless.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:12 pm
Thank you, Curt, for a memorable 2004 and for professionalism at the plate and a thoughtful approach to the game. My father witnessed two world series because of you and your wonderful teammates. You helped bring a joy to a man in his 80’s who really hoped to see our Red Sox win a World Series during his lifetime. It meant so much.
You have a bright future ahead of you. I look forward to learning about your next leadership role.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:13 pm
Curt – thanks for the dedication to the game, the years of hard work, and bringing 2 championships to the Red Sox. You’re a Hall of Famer in my book. Cheers!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:13 pm
And you got to walk off that field as a champion. Thank you Curt so much for Game 6 of the 2004 ALCS, Game 2 of the 2004 World Series and the final game of your career–Game 2 of the 2007 World Series. Congratulations.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:15 pm
Red Sox Nation will be forever grateful to you, Curt! You are in a league of your own! Next stop…Cooperstown! So glad you will enter the Hall of Fame in a Red Sox uniform!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:15 pm
I was never a big fan of you or the tams you pitched for, and I despise your politics, but I respect you as an athlete and as someone who takes a stand and speaks his mind. Enjoy your retirement, Mr Schilling, and thanks for your dedication to the game of baseball.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:16 pm
Thank you so much for the oportunity you gave me to be able to tell my son and grandchildren that the Red Sox finally did it. And I saw a hero swing his cape on, climb the mound, and pitch his ass off. We will never forget. The only thing I wish you did differently while playing for the sox is in that famous NESN video clip of Manny Ramirez looking over your shoulder while you were jotting down notes in your notebook in between innings, Remember you looked up at the camera, then at Manny? Why the hell didn’t you bash Manny repeatedly over the head with that notebook to knock that spupid “Manny being Manny” look off his face. You would have gotten huge praise from even the biggest Sox haters, and be sent straight to the “Hall” on your first year! We love you Curt. Thanks again, and enjoy your retirement.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:17 pm
Curt,
I hope now that you’re retiring you’ll keep you big stupid mouth shut. No one outside of meathead Red Sox Nation will miss you or your idiotic opinions.
The only thing that saddens me about your retirement is that there is no longer a chance you’ll take a line drive off your ugly melon.
You’re a first ballot entrant into the Asshole Hall of Fame.
So long Shithead.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:18 pm
Bosox`s fan from Louisville Ky Thanks for 2004&2007 I have been a Bosox`s fan since 67. God bless you and your family. Your friend in CHRIST. Charles
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:18 pm
Curt – if they gave MVPs for being a self-absorbed blowhard, you’d win multiple times and would be in the Hall of Fame. Maybe you could take a moment and think about that.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:21 pm
Curt,
You deserve all the praise, you were an amazing pitcher on the sport’s grandest stage. You carried the baby Diamondbacks over the Yankees and then were a big part of reversing the curse. As an Indians fan it sucked to watch you pitch against my team cause you were so good but I loved watching you when you faced anybody else. Congratulations, the sport has lost a real warrior.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:21 pm
Curt,
Thank you for the memories. The rest of Red Sox Nation and I will never forget what you did for us from 2004 on. You should definitely be giving your rightful place in the Hall. Thank you again and God bless. Enjoy your retirement, you earned it.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:22 pm
Curt,
I wanted to thank you as a baseball fan for giving me moments in a sport I love and to be able to tell my children about the games I saw you pitch in.
I am a die hard Mets fan but love the game of baseball. Your truly a great pitcher and I admire you both on and off the field.
Enjoy retirement and always remember how you touched so many peoples lives. Now go run for office would ya !
God Bless
Joe
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:22 pm
Curt,
I could always count on an increase in anticipation for the game whenever you were coming in as the started whether for the Phillies or the Red Sox (I follow both teams). Thanks for all you did for me and for both of “my” teams. If you’re ever in Delaware and want to get out on a mountain bike, I’ll show you some fantastic (and some of my favorite) trails. Best wishes in retirement.
Jay R.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:22 pm
Curt: I remember getting goosebumps the day I heard you signed with the Sox! I enjoyed watching you beat the Yankees while you with the DBacks- and then LOVED watching you put them down while with the Sox- especially game 6!!
You brought a lot of heart to the club- and I just have to add that I’ve only lived up here for 4 and a half years, but I appreciate your politics! Go join Dennis and Callahan on Weei!
Thanks for the memories! And all the best to you and your family!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:22 pm
Thanks Curt,
1st ballot all day!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:24 pm
Curt, all we can say is THANK YOU for everything. You deserve a statue in boston green next to paul revere.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:26 pm
Curt: best of luck with the rest of your life. I am not a Red Sox fan, but you are a true “class act” and will be missed in baseball.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:26 pm
Curt, I grew up a Royals fan, and still am, but ended up a D-Backs fan after the family moved to AZ. Thank you so much for a memorable series win (that started the Yankees slide!), but for a historic win during an important time when our country needed it.
(The following season I attended a home D-Back game, and they had Curt and Randy’s MVP jersey up there for fans to take pics. I soon got my turn and just naturally gave both jersey’s a thumbs up with both hands and said ‘thanks’, and everyone that noticed me all nodded and chimed in with a…. like yeah, no KIDDING!…LOL)
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:26 pm
Curt- Thanks for all of the great memories in Phoenix! we were lucky to get to see you pitch in your prime, thanks for the championship! Go D-Backs!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:27 pm
Never really liked you
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Thank You, I hope you get into the hall. I loved watching you play at the Vet, enjoy retirement.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Congratulations, Curt! Best of luck, enjoy your retirement!
I find it interesting that the folks here on this site who really didn’t like you are so incredibly ignorant and morons. I’d say they must be Yankee fans but I don’t want to stoop to that level, I have too much respect for them. You guys can’t even spell or complete a whole sentence. Get a life! Kids read this blog.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Curt: Some say baseball is just a game. Fans know that it is more than that. Baseball runs deep in our soul. Your winning attitude and fierce determination were key elements to the Red Sox winning twice in 4 years after a long drought. You were the key to it all. We in NJ are forever grateful. We will never forget what you did for the Sox; it will be remembered for the rest of our lives and will always be part of baseball history. We will be with you at your induction into the Hall. Thank you. God bless you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:29 pm
Curt, Enjoy the time off and thank you very much. Just a fan!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:29 pm
We will miss you and wish you only the best in your retirement. I want to thank you also for giving me the “get up and go” energy while I was in the hospital. I have MS and was in the hospital watching you play. For the week before I barely got out of bed but watching you on the mound helped me root for something and it gave me the energy to help my body heal. I’m tipping my cap for you Curt. Peace.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:30 pm
Curt,
God bless you and all that you have stood for, stand for now and will stand for in the future. I was upset when the Sox first let you go as a young pitcher feeling that you had that “it” that was required to compete at the major league level. While you had a wonderful career between the lines, you had an equally incredible career off the field that I suggest is likely to become your everlasting legacy. The work you have done for ALS and in helping others less fortunate is something that all people have the God given ability to do but few accept that calling. You did accept the call and there are thousands of people who are forever grateful to you for that. I loved to watch you pitch but admired more your desire and ability to compete. The “bloody sock” playoff run will NEVER be forgotten by true Sox fans, of which I am one, and you did what you said you came here to do, kill off the Curse of that guy named Babe.
Thank you and Dios te bendiga (God Bless You) to you and your family and thank you for sharing your lives with us for the past 6 years.
PS Don’t go away. Come back and torment Gerry and John on WEEI. They deserve it:)))
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:30 pm
I do like the Barack Obama comment though. Thats pretty funny. And the opposition is so incredibly outnumbered by about, what, 500 to 1?
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:30 pm
I first want to say THANKYOU!! and secound is Good luck in your retirement!
Fenway Pahk won’t be the same with out you.. You reversed the curse and forfilled every redsox fans dreams!! and that stand alone in it’s self..
I really hope you make it to Cooperstown. May the Lord Bless you and your family… Jim D Nashua NH
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:30 pm
Hi Curt,
I’ve never sent any type of fan mail out to sports figures but you, my man, deserve a huge thanks! You said it in a ford commercial and delivered! While all the Boston baseball stars of the past basically choked in the post season, you came through. Thanks for making our cold fall nights a bit warmer in 2004 and 2007. You’ll be missed.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:31 pm
Thank you, Schill. I’m glad to see you helped a great team get better. I wish you good luck in everything you do.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:31 pm
Best of luck to you Shills, you gave your all when you were between the lines and that I have always respected you for. Whether it was a game in July or a game in the playoffs it always pissed you off to give up a run or a hit for that matter. I thank you for being out spoken as you are one player that we will never see on that 103 player steriod list. Nothing but the best for you and all your wonderful foundations that you support.
John Palmay
http://www.thepalmaygroup.com
azrealtorjp on Twitter
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:32 pm
Enjoy your well deserved retirement with your family. Thank you for giving your all to reverse the curse in Boston. Boston fans will never forget you and you dedication to the game.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:32 pm
Curt,
A lot of folks are saying a lot of good things about your career and you as a person.
I just want to make a simple statement and I hope you appreciate the sentiment.Ryne Sanberg made what I think the most eloquent acceptance speech when he was inducted into the Hall of Fame. He spoke about respect for the game.
You, in my humble opinion, are a living example of what Ryne was trying to put into words. When it would have been easy to sit out those two games in 2004 and even accepted by the fans, you stepped up to the demand of the occasion and played. Fortitude and a true love for the game, something the rest of both leagues need to learn.
Good bye, long life and all the best
Thank you
Dave
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:34 pm
Warrior. Clutch. Dogged. SO/BB Master. Opinionated. Generous. Accountable. You were all of these. I look forward to seeing your plaque in Cooperstown.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:34 pm
Curt, still cant believe how you help changed an attitude of a nation(Red Sox) from a fatalistic narcissism to actually believing anything can be accomplished. Thanks for all you did for Beantown. You are all heart!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:36 pm
Curt
Love how you think on and off the field. What you did for us Sox fans was huge, thank you. Best to you and your family always.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:36 pm
Curt, all I can say is thanks for 2004. Love ya, dude. And Foulkie.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:36 pm
Dear Curt: Just wanted to say, first, thanks for putting everything on the line in 2004. You probably cost yourself a couple of seasons pitching hurt, but you gave all fathers an example of what courage, dedication, leadership and responsibility means in practice,to teach to our sons and daughters. Second, thanks for always being true to your values, and not being afraid or hesitant to express your faith in God and your support for America. Thanks also for writing your own words and saying how you felt, and not letting the bozos who write sports for a living, many of whom are your intellectual inferiors, discourage you with their bitter potshots and insults. Finally, thanks for letting baseball fans like me enjoy watching a true original play the game the way it was meant to be played, and doing it brilliantly.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:39 pm
Classy way to end a wonderful career, Curt. Now you can devote even more time to antagonising CHB. Can’t wait.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:40 pm
Dear Curt Schilling,
Please do not retire! You are a great player! I am sorry about the 2008 season! If you were on the roster, the Red Sox would have won the World Series that year. At least they made it to Game 7 of the ALCS. Wanna watch the World Series on FOX this October? How’s your shoulder? I WILL ALWAYS REMBEMBER YOU!!!! I am 12 years old and I am from Sandwich and I am a Boston sports fan.
Want my watermelon?
Ben
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:40 pm
Thank you!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:42 pm
Mr. Schilling,
I live in Brazil. Land of the soccer. Baseball here is just something exotic that we could not understand. But for the last 10 years I’ve been learning and loving this incredible game. And 2001 was one of the biggest reasons for that. And 2004, wow.
Thank you very much for helping us to really appreciate a great game.
Good luck with your future life.
Rgds
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:42 pm
Curt – as a lifelong Red Sox fan I say thanks for all you did for my team and it’s fandom. I always respected your desire to win. I am also very focused on social media and admired the way you have connected to fans through SonsOfSamHorn.com and other venues including your blog 38Pitches.com. You were ahead of your time. I celebrated your career and your social media leadership today on my blog http://www.jeffbennett.org, where you have been on my blog roll since it’s inception. Rock on Curt.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:42 pm
Curt,
Your stamina, poise, and candor will truly be missed. Thank you for coming to Boston and giving it 125%. Baseball will truly miss you. Thank you for being a true professional in this tumultuous era of ball. – B
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:43 pm
Curt-
You made the difference, at a time when this city needed it. The 2004 post-season is absolutely one of the greatest sports stories ever written.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:43 pm
Best wishes, Curt! Thanks for bringing two titles to Red Sox Nation! May Cooperstown come calling….
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:44 pm
God bless you and your family, and thanks for helping me proudly display my plackard “Hello God, I’m a Red Sox fan. It’s nice to finally meet you!”.
Your skill and dedication should be a model for our youth.
Thanks again,
Leo & Judi Martin,
Smithfield, ME
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:45 pm
Curt,
Thank you so much for being such a big part of our Red Sox family. You showed grit, determination, and a lasting legacy of which you can be very proud. On a personal note, my dearly loved Step-daughter passed away unexpectedly two years ago. One of my fondest memories was our nightly conversations during baseball season. We both claimed you, she with her Arizona Diamondbacks and me with my Boston Red Sox. You have touched many lives and you will always be thought of with gratitude by your many fans. All the best in your retirement, from both of us!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:46 pm
Curt, 2004 happened because of you. You’re awesome, I hate that I don’t get to behold your grit and determination anymore. And you really had a red sock charging the Red Sox forward. That’s gotta become incorporated in to some song lyrics or something.
The question of “if you’ll go to the HOF?” I can’t beleive there’s a question, 3 rings and a WS MVP? Are you kidding me? Shoe in. Keep blogging, please.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:47 pm
Thank you Curt for everything you did for baseball. You are a first ballot hall of famer in my books- If not for what you did for the game then for your KALS fondation. You were my favorite Redsox player and I hope that you enjoy retirement. I cant wait to see number 38 hanging in Fenway park!
THANK YOU CURT FOR WHAT YOU DID FOR THE RESOX AND MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL!!!!
Jon Strabley
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:48 pm
Curt,
Thanks for the great memories you gave us while wearing a Baseball Uniform. I hope you’ll continue the good you’re already doing out of one. Speak your mind honestly, do what you believe is right and admit if you screw up. I’ve always been a fan of that! Run for Office!!
Oh yeah, SOX and STEELERS(again) 09!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:52 pm
Curt, Best wishes. I know you experienced more success with the Red Sox and Dbacks, but I hope you consdider going into the hall of fame( in my mind, there is no debate) as a Phillie. We will never forget the charity work for ALS you did here, not to mention the amazing 1993 season. Even though we just won the series, to me that is still the best Phillies team.. And finally as a resident of kennett Square, thank you for opening the golf center, which I still visit often. I always thought it was the coolest thing to see”Gerhig inc” on the sign. You could have named the company after yourself, but instead did after your son, ithink that is very classy. I had the pleasure of meeting you a few times around the area and your wife Shonda at the golf center. Best of luck in the future, and If you need somewhere to retire to, we;d love to have you back in Kennett Square!
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:55 pm
Thank you for 2004 and 2007. You are forever in Red Sox Folklore. Long live the Red Sock of ‘04. Here’s to seeing you one last time in Red Sox garb at your Cooperstown induction.
March 23rd, 2009 at 6:57 pm
Curt,
I just wanted to say that I am appalled by the douchebags coming on here to express their personal dislike for you.
From what little I know of your politics I suspect that we wouldn’t agree on much outside the lines, but to me that is irrelevant when it comes to celebrating your career in baseball and with the Red Sox.
As a Sox fan living my entire adult life in LA I don’t get to see the club play very often and felt privileged to get a chance to see you pitch the 3rd game clincher in the sweep over the Angels in the 2007 ALDS.
Even a left-wing wingnut cannot deny that your Bloody Sock game took guts and will ensure your baseball immortality and my eternal respect. As far as I’m concerned you’re a f**kin’ Hero for that game alone. Thank you for being a huge cog in the 2 championships that my parents never got to live to see.
I wish you and your family a happy retirement and hope the next stop is Cooperstown.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:01 pm
It was always a pleasure to watch you play, Curt. God bless you, and the best of luck with whatever else you do in life.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:02 pm
Schill- Thank you for coming to Boston- The tide turned when you arrived, great heart, power, smarts, drama, finesse, you’ve got it all- Best of luck to you and the family.-G
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Curt,
Loved your departing comments. Unlike others who retire on top but then make comebacks that never quite work out – Brett Favre any one? – you knew when it was time to go. You will be missed, mate, and I can only hope you join one of the many teams that could use your exceptional services as a mentor or pitching coach, and that we can follow your baseball career in other ways.
All the best to you and your family over the coming years.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:04 pm
I was never a fan of any of your teams, but I respect what you brought to the game. You will be missed.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:05 pm
Curt, im 18, and you have been my hero me entire life, i remember growing up listening to my grandparents telling me about you in 93′. You were their favorite player and it was passed down to me i guess lol…… i remember watching you and Johnson in Arizona, and im a Red Sox fan so with everything you have done in Boston and especially 2004 you have become a hero and an idol to me…. im planning on having my jersey of you framed so i will always have something of my favorite player
you are a definate first ballot hall of famer in my opinion and i cant wait to own a Cooperstown jersey of yours…. i am really hoping to meet you someday either at Fenway Park or an autograph signing or somewhere because i would love my framed jersey of you to have your signature on it
God Bless you and your family
-Brian L.-
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:07 pm
Curt,
I will never forget the mark you left on Redsox history! Ever sense that Ford commerical that you said “Going to Boston to break an eighty six year old curse” and you did it.. I will always remember that bloody sox!! You played hard with alot of love and passion for the game. There are only a few guys left in the Majors that still have that love (that you did) for the game, not just love for the money.. I wish we got to see you in a Redsox uniform for one more year. Hope you stay in Boston you are a great person to have in our community.. You are a great player and person.. Thanks for giving us everything you had… Best wishes after baseball!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:07 pm
don’t let the door hit you in the butt on the way out. I just wish someone would have knocked that smirk off your face before you quit. please change your son’s name from gehrig to big papi so you don’t have any association with the yankees in your household. you may have been a good pitcher but your self-righteous bs is tough to listen to. if you think you didn’t play with steroid abusers on the red sox the joke is on you. the truth will come out one day and 2004 and 2007 will be forever tainted.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:11 pm
Congratulations, Curt, on a great career. I’m sorry to see you hang up your cleats. As a D’Back fan, I am forever grateful for having had a top notch pitcher like you on the mound every 5th day matched up with another future Hall of Famer like Randy Johnson. 2001 will always hold a special place in my memories as a baseball fan. Best of luck in future endeavors!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:17 pm
Curt, being an Astros fan for the past 30 years, I will remember you as always being prepared, always giving 110%, and one heck of a pitcher! More than that, you have always conducted yourself in a manner that you can be proud of. Best of everything to you and your family.
You will be missed!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:17 pm
Thanks Curt! Thanks Curt! Thanks Curt!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:19 pm
The Sox may have won a World Series without you, but probably not in my lifetime. Thanks for breaking the curse!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Looking forward to the silence.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:22 pm
Dear Mr. Schilling,
Thank you for so many great memories. I will, as so many other New Englanders, be forever grateful for your willingness to put your career on the line in ‘04 in order to secure the Sox first championship in 86 years. God Bless You and Godspeed~
Michael Kendall
Las Vegas, Nevada
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:23 pm
Hey, Curt you have had a great career and you are one of the best clutch pitchers ever. You were always one of the best pitchers in the league and you were a true ace. You had a great career and you would have my Hall Of Fame vote(If I could vote).
Thanks,
Niklas
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:25 pm
Grats on a Great baseball career! Will be looking towards your next one.. and hopefully some time in ASL writeing and playing.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:25 pm
Best of luck in your future. Your tremendous efforts brought joy to all of Red Sox Nation. I wish I had a tape of the Ford commercial you did after you first signed here where you were hitching to Boston “to break an 86 year-old curse.” Best to you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:25 pm
Curt, you’ve been a great ambassador for the game and we can’t thank you enough for that.
From those of us at XELR8, thanks for being a great friend.
Best of luck in all your future ventures. I, for one, can’t wait to see what you have planned next!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:25 pm
You will be missed. Thanks for the fantastic memories. I have seen many of the greats. For me, I would put you as the BEST ‘Big Game’ pitcher I have witnessed in my lifetime.
Enjoy your well deserved retirement.
Happy Trails !
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:26 pm
Thank you Curt. You will be forever loved in the city of Boston for the heroic performances and historic wins you delivered Red Sox Nation. You are one of us!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:27 pm
That’s awesome Curt. Glad you are going out on top…maybe a little sore…but on top none-the-less. Congrats on a great career.
H
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:29 pm
May God bless your next area in His Service.
I saw you with my Phillies and have admired your life off the field even more than on it. You are a great professional who played and represented the game as well as anyone. I am proud that you are a brother.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Curt,Best of luck to you! I am a lifelong Yankees fan-but you were a badass dude and I admired your skills as a pitcher—best of luck for a happy and healthy retirement-the baseball world will truly miss a “gamer” such as yourself!-Marty Immel
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Was disappointed when you left the Phillies but loved your style throughout The Verducci Drysdale comparison is good except you had better control. Third ballot HOF
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:32 pm
I am a white sox fan but appreciated your desire and the fact that HEAVEN FORBID you weren’t politically correct. After 10+ years of MJ23 here in chicago giving the most vanilla of answers I know a corporate answer when I hear it. I applaud you for actually speaking your mind sometimes and not always saying the “popular” thing and just being yourself. True that won’t make you a global brand or get you all the hot endorsements but for some of us it shows you are actually human.
I also like the fact that you are honest enough to say it matters that you make the HOF. Some athletes say oh it doesn’t matter but you know they dont mean it.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:32 pm
ZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzz
A year too late!! (and it wouldn’t surprise me if a Clemens/Jordan event is in the future)
I am happy you thanked your IMAGINARY FRIEND…..tinkerbell, bigfoot, Loch-ness monster or Jesus. (pick one)
get a hobby Curt. If you sit in front of the computer basking in the solicited drools from the lonely blog-bunch…… you will inflate into a Macy’s day parade float. (you are well on your way)
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:33 pm
Glad to see you go!! You may be better known for shooting your mouth off rather than your pitching. And to watch you back pedal in front of Congress was fun!! I tolerated you as a Philly, but despised you as a Red Sox player.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:33 pm
I don’t like seeing anything exceptional come to an end, I don’t. I believe the television show “ER” could and should go on for years to come, and wish you could go another season or two as well!
If the shoulder’s gone, the shoulder’s gone, but all I can say is that there will come a time this season when they will need a win, badly, and you are the guy who always delivers.
Best of luck and from a fan -thank you for all of the excitement and helping our team win those two World Series titles!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:33 pm
I hope you retire from blogging as well. The world doesn’t need to hear anything from you anymore.
I have respect for you, but I always have, and always will,as a Yankee fan, hate your guts.
Have a good life anyway.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:34 pm
God bless you! Now go spend time with your family!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:35 pm
Hey Curt thanks for the memories. You gave us all something that 86 years of players could not and you did what you set out to do. Its to bad you had to finish your career the way you did, but you absolutely went out a winner in lots of peoples eyes. You did everything in life and baseball like a true professional from NOT HIRING AN AGENT, to everything you do for your family and ALS. We all know you will still be around to voice your opinion on whatever you do or dont like, so you won’t be missed there. The real question is Red Sox, Diamondbacks, or Phillies, where will your legacy end up with. Just remember this, what its like to shut up 54,000 yankee fans, coming back from being down three games to your rival team, and last but not least changing the course of history by ending the drought in red sox nation. Thanks for the last years of your career and hope everything goes well for you and your family in the future. P.S. THE YANKEES SUCK
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:35 pm
Thanks for the memories, the passion, and for most of all – just keeping it real.
The Doodle Abides
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:36 pm
Curt:
Congrats on a great career. I am a die hard METS fan and when you were in Phila I dreaded when you were pencil’d in. I use to wish that you would join the METS however I knew that was not likely.
Good luck in the future and the most important part of your life is still a daily part of your life…YOUR FAMILY!!
John
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:37 pm
I thought you were already retired!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:39 pm
Good luck and I hope you make it to Hall of Fame!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:39 pm
Good riddance you right-wing lunatic.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:40 pm
Curt, You suck. You are a thief and I hope your retirement is terrible. I wish nothing but bad things for you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:40 pm
Enjoyed the past several years and your efforts – You helped Beantown get on a great ride. Hope you enjoy your new ride.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:41 pm
Curt,
I hope that one day I will meet you in-person and be able to shake your hand and say thank-you. Thank-you for coming to Boston, thank-you for your passion/leadership and for playing the game right, and thank you for allowing me to leave this earth having seen two (yes two – I still can’t believe it) world series championships that are a tribute to your abilities as one of the best postseasons pitchers of all time.
Enjoy the retirement – you certainly deserve it.
All the best,
Dean
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:43 pm
Enjoy your retirement and try to not step on anymore KETCHUP packets.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:46 pm
You over-opinionated, over-rated, got lucky to pitch on good teams, fake bloody sock blabber mouth. It is great to see you go! Today the baseball world is a better place!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:46 pm
Curt,Thanks for the memories. As a 50 yo I remember when you were traded for Mike Boddicker and I’m glad you retired as a Red Sox! Me and my family got to see you pitch in late September 04 again’st Tampa Bay. That was the night they shot a sceen for a Drew Barrymore movie after the game. Good luck to you and your family and I hope to continue to hear you on the radio.
All the Best,
Nick
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:46 pm
Congratulations on your retirement, and being able to go out on your terms. I’m not a fan of any team you pitched for, but as a fan of the game, I don’t think I have the right to stand here and tell you that you suck or that I don’t wish you well.
The amount of times I dreaded you pitching against my Giants is proof of the respect you’ve earned from me. Congratulations.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:46 pm
Curt,
When we won in 2004 I watched with my dad (86 yrs old) and my newborn son(8-11-04) I know you heard this a million times but thank you for a memory that will live in my heart forever.
It was a privlige watching you pitch and I will teach C.J. (almost 5) to love the game the way you did ….Thanks again and god bless you and your family
Charlie MacGregor
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:47 pm
I’m not surprise Schilling announced his retirement on a slow news day. He always loved to be in the headlines.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:49 pm
As a Yankee fan, I had the pleasure of watching two of the most memorable games I’ll ever see, while you were pitching. One was the Arizona game that pitted you against El Duque (one of my favorites), in which Tino had some late theatrics, followed by Jeter, but none of it would have mattered much if it hadn’t been for the intensity that you brought to the game. You were a definite force to be reckoned with.
I was also at the ‘bloody sock’ game, so I’ve seen you in some of your signature moments. That was a decisive game, I’ve never seen Yankee Stadium so depressed.
There’s nothing like a great competitor. I’ll never regard you as a great Red Sox player per se, the way I will Yaz or Carlton Fisk. You were more your own man. More precisely, I’d say you were the greatest anti-Yankee ever. It was due to you more than anyone else that the Yankee empire came tumbling down, a wretched spectacle. You have to write a book (and write it, rather than using a sportwriter.)
Your politics are pretty bad tho. Still a neocon?
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:50 pm
Thank you big schill for the great memories that you have given me while wearing the red sox uniform. after 1986 I didn’t watch the red sox until 2003 and even with the heartbreak of that year I knew after signing you that the red sox were gonna contend in 2004.So thank you for making me a fan again and to all the bloggers who left negative comments….GET A LIFE!!!!..god bless ya schill
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:50 pm
Thank you sir for doing, what you said you would do! i just wish dad could have hung on long enough for he and i to see it!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:50 pm
Thanks for the memories Curt. You’ve been a winner your whole career. Good luck moving forward. And to anyone who dislikes you for having an opinion, can keep their opinions to themselves. Anyone wasting their time to voice negative opinions should spend more time working on their own character flwas than wasting thier time with such immature nonsense.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:50 pm
THANK GOD it is about time you overrated over price piece of shit!!
Baseball is a much better place now with you gone!!!
Oh Did i meantion over opinionated loud mouth!! you said so much shit in the past it all just sounds like blah blah blah
only wish your mouth would retire too!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:51 pm
there would be no red sox nation without you, we all held our breath as you pitched your heart out with your bloody sock, i was holding my breath all night and after that game i knew you were a hall of famer and even if you don’t make the hall, red sox nation on cape cod will be forever grateful to you and your bloody sock!!:)
PS. run for office because us republicans need a breath of fresh air and you are it. enjoy retirement and come to cape cod in the summer!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:52 pm
You did roids, shove that bloody sock up your a$$
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Curt
I don’t understand why people would leave such rude and immature remarks.
Thanks for coming to Boston. Red Sox nation know what you have done for us.
I will miss you, your talent, your passion and yes…your candor!
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Curt, congratulations on a great career. Good luck in your retirement. I wish you all the happiness in the world. I hope you stay involved in the game in some capacity.
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Class on the field. Absolutely none off.
On with the game…
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:55 pm
I don’t know if you’ll read this, but I truly hope that you do. You were one in a million, Curt, and I just want to take this time to thank you for choosing us. You didn’t have to come to Boston and you know it. You had earned your right to veto any trade, and you could have gone anywhere that would be willing to pay the toll. So again, thank you for choosing us.
I consider myself blessed to have had the opportunity to see you pitch. I was at that very first spring training game against Northeastern I believe, Spring Training 2004. The excitement was amazing. Then to watch you help bring two World Series titles to this town, at such a sacrifice to your own well being. We can’t thank you enough.
I know it’s probably hard to read people gushing about you over and over, and I know I am just one of the many, but you very quickly cemented yourself as one of my favorite people in all of sports. I respect the hell out of you for the way you approach your business, your willingness to say what is on your mind and even say it in your own special way via this blog or SOSH or WEEI. I love listening to you talk and all the interesting perspective you bring. And most importantly, I loved everything you brought to the table every fifth day. I remember hanging on every pitch that start in Oakland where you were near perfection.
Much respect to you Curt. Thank you for everything you have done for this city and team, and as the son of a former Marine, thank you for your undying support of the US Armed Forces. I hope happiness finds you in whatever you do from here. We will miss seeing #38 out there for the Red Sox, but will cherish all the memories you gave us.
Jason Joseph – Worcester, MA
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:59 pm
Congrats on your retirement and thank you for many great years; thank you for your honesty and integrity regarding life in general and the game of baseball. Thank you for helping the Sox win and thank you for the memories. Best of luck on your new adventures in life.
And on a totally separate note…my husband is now in Afghanistan and I was wondering how/if I could get him one of the patches you blogged about a few months ago, to send to him?
March 23rd, 2009 at 7:59 pm
Curt, I’ve been a RS fan since 1966 and I’ve seen several RS pitchers with the hope to win a WS. There was Lonborg, Culp, Seibert, Tiant… but you’re the man who helped break that blasted curse. And the way you did it to the NYY brings tears to my aged eyes.
Is there a book in the making? Count me in to buy one and hopefully an autographed one. May God continue to bless you and your family.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:01 pm
Congrats Mr. Schilling on a fairly good career. Baseball will be better now that we don’t have to here you whine on how all the better players in the league cheated. Barry Bonds is the Best Player ever Hands Down (steroids or not) I hope that one day someone figures out that the blood on your sock during the 2004 WS was Fake. It would be very fitting since your career is mediocre at best that you will not be accompanying your “Red” Sock in the Hall of Fame since you pitched during the steroid era. I am glad that I was able to see Toronto win 2 world series in the nineties it will not happen again for a long time. Have great retirement and maybe you can write some books crying about your peers like Jose Canseco.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:03 pm
THANK YOU.
EVERY RED SOX FAN THANKS YOU. I HOPE YOU NEVER HAVE TO BUY A DRINK AGAIN IN BOSTON!
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:03 pm
Curt, I have been a Sox fan since I can remember. My passion was ignited in 1967 and has not waned a bit since. I cannot thank you enough for your contribution to the Red Sox. Like the Globe Sportswriter, I realize that there would have been no victory in 2004 without 38–Curt Schilling, and yours is the only Red Sox shirt I have ever bought for myself. Thank you for your integrity, will, and love for the game.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:06 pm
Class move im glad. thanks Curt we will always love you !!
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:06 pm
Dear Curt,
I want to thank you for coming to Boston & leading our team to 2 World Series Championships.I have always been a fan of yours and enjoyed how you had the courage to stand up and speak your mind not caring what others thought of you.
I wish you & your family many happy years together.We will miss you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:06 pm
Curt,
I have been encouraged by your testimony for Christ. Thank you for the great memories and God bless.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:06 pm
Tampon Curt get outta here, and take your bloody Tampon with you you Pussy, Piece of shit, no talent steroid abusing, loud mouthed overpayed no talent retard! Yeah you pitched 20 years with that noodle arm with no steroids. Bullshit! that’s a lie! Boston sucks and didn’t deserve to win the series. I hope they never win it again! Later days Tampon boy! You bloody cunt! Do us all a favor and go play in traffic you Dick! Sew yer fuckin big ass mouth shut or cut out your tongue. Your wife will probably do that after 2 or 3 months stuck with your stupid ass 24/7 FUCK that sounds like hell on Earth. I predict that you will roid up and be back in 2 years all healthy again, surprise! Fuckin sure hope not. I hate your guts. You are the dickiest player of my 60 some years as a fan, hands down. You are a Dick! Go fuck yourself! You despicable cunt.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:08 pm
Curt:
One of my first memories of you was when I was 13 years old, at a Phillies – D’Backs game with my family in 2000. My dad, who is from Philly, lined up along the right field fence where you were signing autographs. You signed for everyone around him but completely looked him over. When Arizona traded my favorite player to Philadelphia to bring you in, that was just icing on the cake for me. I couldn’t help but resent you. To me, you represented the worst about my favorite sport: the pig-headed, over-paid ass with an ego the size of Alaska, but I soon realized that you also EARNED that pay and ego.
The time you spent in AZ was proof enough of that. Thank you for the AZ-Phillies trade that took away the best defensive 1st baseman AZ has ever had, and thank you for the title you brought to one of my favorite teams in 2001. You and Johnson were truly a force to be reckoned with and a joy to watch. Your stint in AZ was good enough that I can overlook you going to Boston. I may someday come to forgive you for the sock thing, even if I never forget what Boston did to my Yankees in the 04 ALCS.
So, Curt, thank you. Good or bad, you’ve made a difference in so many lives. At the height of your career, you were a brilliant pitcher, and I look forward to your induction into the hall of fame.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:08 pm
For your dedication to the game, for your perseverance through injury, for staying true to your heart, for coming to Boston and bringing us a World Championship, but most of all for making 55 thousand Yankee fans SHUT UP, I thank you.
Best of luck to you and your family, you will forever remain in our hearts. May God bless you.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:08 pm
People can say what they want about the bloody sock or the blog, but those are distractions; this was a quality ace who gave you complete games after they went out of vogue. Schilling’s career strikeout numbers all by themselves — he’s 14th all-time, at this writing — give him entree into the serious Hall-of-Fame-inclusion conversations.
And his postseason heroics seal the deal.
Before I go, here are two more numbers for the voters to chew on during the intervening five years before Curt becomes eligible for the Hall:
– In the modern era (post-1900), Schilling is ranked #1 ALL-TIME in strikeout-to-walk ratio, way ahead of Pedro (who’s #2). Number one. All time.
– When Schill broke into the league, at just the age of 21, he was one of the four youngest players in the NL; he might have even been rushed to the bigs a little too fast. But when he pitched his LAST game, in 2007 (a World Series victory), he was one of the ten OLDEST players in the AL. It takes longevity of a special kind to make both lists, and not too many guys have it. Schill did.
Curt belongs in the Hall of Fame, without a doubt.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:09 pm
Thank you Curt, The Red Sox can add another legend to their list. Thank you for 2004 and 2007!! Best of luck in the future!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:10 pm
Curt, best of luck. I will never forget the “Bloody Sock.” Most unbelievable thing i’ve ever seen. Gives me chills watching highlights of that game.Thanks for the memories. GO SOX!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:10 pm
Curt,
When you came to Boston you said you were on a mission. You never faltered, never waivered and you accomplished that mission. Thank you for bringing the credibilty of a World Championship to Boston. It solidified what the fans always knew, that we are the best in baseball. The heart and soul you put into the game exemplifies what it means to be a Red Sox and it was fitting you came here and put an end to the curse. Some players come to a team late in their careers for the money and do not put in the effort that you did. Thank you from a life long fan and member of Red Sox Nation. To me you “are” Mr. October.
Ken Brown
Weare NH
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:10 pm
Cunt,
we will not miss ur loud mouth or politics that are just to the right of Hitler..good bye doucebag
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:11 pm
You were a class act before you came to the AZ Diamondbacks and you gave baseball fans your heart and soul. You made us love baseball again. Then you weren’t through and wow’d us with some outstanding pitching in Boston. Thanks. Congrats on your retirement, you deserve it! May God bless you and your family with a wonderful life! May Jesus Christ be praised!
Safford, AZ
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:12 pm
(of course, I meant Curt broke in at age 21 in the AL, with the O’s)
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:12 pm
Curt: Thanks for all you have done for A L S. Your dollars for Strikeouts will be sorely missed but all of us touched by this disease are forever grateful.
See you again this year at the golf tournament in Scottsdale.
Coach goose gosland
los altos, ca
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:13 pm
Curt, Thanks for All you Done for Us Red Sox Fans in 2004 ( Winning it for Us ) and thanks again for staying here with us in 2007 to Prove that We can Do it again and Prove Yankee Fans and the Team Wrong that We can Never win another Championship again!!! We Sox Fans Should be Very Grateful for your Help in our Red Sox Success!!!! Best of luck in what ever you decide to do in the coming years!!!! Curt I Believe in you when others do not ( Like other Red Sox Fans ) – on why you have or need to Retire here as a Red Sox player an all. Congrads on Finishing Here, Thank You and Your Family on Staying here in Medfield.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:15 pm
2004 will always be in my memory and my kids will learn about you and that great series when they get old enough, they are 2 years old and 2 months old. That pride and sportsmanship is what I want them to learn from you.
Hope I get to see you in Cooperstown.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:15 pm
In addition to your on field success’, I have huge respect for someone who’s not afraid to speak his mind. You are Red Sox Nation’s, Bobby Orr, a real class act! I wish you the best!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Thanks for the memories. We’ll be waiting for your speech during your induction to Cooperstown!
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Dear Curt-
Thanks for the memories, including most especially 10/27/2004. Thanks for being an example on the field, and while I disagree with your politics, I admire your passion on and off the field. The world would be a better place if everyone cared as much as you do about life.
May retirement treat you as well as your career did those of us that watched you play and were blessed to share so many of those moments with you.
-Josh Kammerer
Santa Barbara, CA
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:15 pm
I’m saddened but not surprised by your news. Coming back from shoulder surgery past 40 was always a long-shot at best.
Be that as it may, I want to tell you that on the day you are enshrined at Cooperstown I will be there – God willing – cheering and recalling the many games I attended to see you pitch at Veterans’ Stadium, the games I watched you pitch on TV for Arizona in the 2001 World Series, and, most memorably, what you did in 2004.
You are the stuff of legend, Curt Schilling. Enjoy the next phase of a wonderful, blessed life.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:15 pm
curt,
lets be honest nobody will actually miss your big fat loud mouth and pompous ways baseball is a better sport today without out u and ur nonstop talking about ur own personal beliefs which should be kept to urself
bosox fan
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:16 pm
Curt,
You likely don’t know it…but your sox jersey and photos all signed by you are framed and are in a place of honor in our home. They are the top bill in our REDSOX tv room. May Copperstown be so blessed as to have you in bronze some day soon. Thanks for the memories!!
I will never forget the Ford ad with you hitching a ride to Boston. You sure helped dump the curse…
You never let us down.
All the best to you and your family.
Randy
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Curt, thank you for everything you’ve done for baseball and for the United States. I’ll miss seeing you on the field, but something tells me you won’t be completely off the radar screen. I wish you and your family only the best in the years ahead. I know you’ll be in the Hall.
Anne,
Bradenton, FL
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Curt,
Thank you for allowing my son and I to share the memory of watching the Red Sox win a World Series in 2004. You will always be respected in Boston for the way you played the game and the hope you brought to a city. You’re a class act. Best wishes to you and your family. I hope your Cooperstown plaque has you in a Boston hat.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:17 pm
As a life-long Sox fan, all I can say is “Thanks”. Thanks for everything… the memories and the inspiration and the examplary leadership. May God richly bless you and yours, all the days of your life.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Curt,
As a Redsox fan living on Long Island I just wanted to say ThANK YOU.