Legendary Red Sox pitcher Pedro Martinez is returning to the Boston Red Sox...this time in a Front Office role.
Pedro Martinez is coming back to the Red Sox as a special assistant to general manager Ben Cherington.
The club announced Thursday that their former icon -- considered by some to be the best pitcher in Red Sox history -- is coming back.
“We are very excited to have Pedro on board with us and back in the Red Sox organization,” said Cherington. “He was one of the game’s most dominant pitchers and without a doubt a beloved figure in Red Sox history. Similar to former teammate Jason Varitek, who joined the baseball operations staff in September, Pedro will be involved in several areas, including the evaluation, mentorship and instruction of young players in Spring Training and throughout the season.”
MLB.com was first to report in early November that the Red Sox had a position waiting for Martinez whenever he wanted to accept it.
“I am thrilled to be returning to this organization and to the city I love,” Martinez said. “Ben Cherington’s meetings this week have been outstanding. It is an honor to be back with the Red Sox and help in any way I can. I am grateful to our leaders; I believe in them, and I thank them for allowing me to return to the field and help us win again. My heart will always live in Boston.”
First Varitek, now Martinez. What's next? Manny Ramirez to be named Traveling Secretary? You also gotta wonder if Pedro may pull a Dwight Schrute and complain about being special assistant TO THE general manager.
In all seriousness, this is a fantastic move for the Red Sox front office and their scouting department. If anyone knows pitching, it's Pedro. Go back and look at his career stats. It's incredible. He had seven consecutive seasons in Boston ('97-'03) with an ERA under 3.00. Oh by the way, he did it with needles sticking out of every batter's butt cheeks.
Given the latest drama with Terry Francona admiting in his book that this ownership group is strictly concerned about the club's image, one can't help but wonder if this may be another "sexy" move. But my gut is saying this is a phenomenal move for the future of this organization. One guy who may be very happy is Rubby De La Rosa, who has known Martinez for quite sometime now.
Let's hope Pedro tosses Lucchino aside when he charges at Ben for not making hip and sexy acquistions.
