A Schilling Retrospective

Compiled by Drew Scott

When Curt Schilling first arrived to play for the Sox, he was featured in a Dunkin’ Donuts where he put on a fake Boston accent, saying, “Play wicked hahd when I go to the pahk.” It is funny to think that ad could truly describe Curt Schilling’s career, but his relentless work ethic and preparation were two things that set him apart from the rest.

Here is Buster Olney discussing Schilling’s legacy:

And here are Peter Gammons thoughts:

With both men in agreement Curt deserves a spot in Cooperstown let’s take a look at Schilling’s career resume: 20 MLB Seasons with 5 teams (BAL, HOU, PHI, ARI, BOS); 216 career wins (80th all time); career ERA of 3.46; 3,116 K’s (15th all time); six-time all star selection (1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2004); three-time World Series Champion (2001, 2004, 2007); 2001 World Series MVP, and a postseason record of 11-2 with a 2.23 ERA.

What the baseball writers are saying:

Alex Speier on WEEI.com reminds us of the trade that brought Schill here.

If you need your fill of Schilling stats’ check out Gary Marbry’s post on the Nuggetpalooza blog on WEEI.com.

When Tom Verducci was asked whether or not Curt was the best postseason pitcher of all time, he had this to say: “You know, it’s hard to define the absolute best. Christy Mathewson was pretty darn good. But I would just go by his generation. I would pick him and John Smoltz as the best big-game pitchers of this generation.” Check out the rest of the article here.

In regards to Schilling’s Hall of Fame candidacy, Rob Neyer from ESPN writes, “I’m fairly sure there’s a rational argument to be made against Schilling. But I’m still waiting to see it.” To read the rest of his thoughts click here.

Here’s what the Canadians think about Schilling’s retirement. Here is what the gaming blog Kotaku had to say about Schilling calling it quits.

And this kid thinks that Curt should get in, and he is also very concerned about him having a good life after baseball:

Oh, and you didn’t think I could possibly resist posting something on the bloody sock, did you?

Regardless of whether or not Schilling makes it into the Hall he was a joy to watch and was an integral part of two Red Sox World Series Championships. He may have been outspoken and opinionated, but when he took the ball every fifth day you knew that you were going to get one of the most prepared pitchers in the game. Oh and if you happened to be facing him in the postseason as an opposing player, you might as well have just not shown up at the ballpark. Thanks for 20 great seasons, Curt.

One Comments for “A Schilling Retrospective”

1. Tim Says:
   March 24th, 2009 at 6:39 pm

   Chris, great post, really enjoyed the comprehensive view of Schill’s retirement.

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