SS – Nomar Garciaparra
‘Nomah’ is another player close to many Bostonian’s hearts. He spent the best part of his career in Boston, receiving four of his six All-Star appearances as a Red Sox player.
In the six full healthy seasons he played in Boston, he recorded high-90’s to triple digits in RBI’s. He was a key figure in Boston for his tenure, which resulted in the heart-breaking trade. The trade landed Garciaparra in Chicago, to play for the Cubs and Red Sox fans in pain. His career was then effected largely by injury – not playing over half a season for four straight years. This trade came just before the 2004 World Championship.
In the 2002 season, Nomar recorded an American League-leading fifty-six doubles, capping another tremendous season for the star.
The effects of his injuries might have limited the length of Nomar’s career, but his time in Boston cemented him as one of the Red Sox greats. Many would like to see his number retired along with the other Boston greats, however, this remains unlikely due to policies. For the many, number 5 will remain Nomar’s number and his impact on a generation in Boston won’t be forgotten any time in the future. Garciaparra’s game was an exciting prospect to witness and the absence of a World Series ring, from his part, is a disappointment to Sox fans everywhere.