The article discusses the Boston Red Sox's policy on retiring jersey numbers, emphasizing its strict adherence to Hall of Fame membership and lengthy playing careers with the team. Despite their success with three World Series championships, the Sox have only retired numbers for two players associated with those titles. The author reflects on how this policy excludes numerous historical players who contributed to the team's legacy before jersey numbers were even established, raising questions about future retirees in light of recent championships.
It's a good list. A solid list. Boston was held back on retiring numbers for a while by requiring players not only finish their career with the Sox but also make the Hall of Fame.
Despite being the team with the third most World Series championships, they have retired only two numbers of players who won a championship with Boston: Pedro and Big Papi.
Imagine the reputational difference for the Sox during the championship drought if they'd been able to leverage this cornucopia of stars?
So who does that leave? Who would be next? Will Pedro and Papi be it for the (first) four championships of the 21st century?
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