Boston Red Sox: 30 Greatest Players in Team History
30: Curt Schilling, SP (2004-2007)
While his time in Boston was incredibly short, Curt Schilling had a massive impact on the organization during his four-year stint. Schilling is best known for his “Bloody Sock” performance in Game 6 of the 2004 ALCS, where he pitched magnificently despite needing surgery to repair the tendon in his right ankle.
The bloody sock became a phenomenon, and Schilling’s incredible performance was a massive reason why the Red Sox came back and beat the Yankees after being down 3-0 in the ALCS. Schilling then helped the Red Sox sweep the St. Louis Cardinals for their first World Series victory since 1918.
Schilling was not only an incredible post season performer for the Red Sox in 2004, as he dominated the regular season as well. Schilling finished 21-6 in 2004 with a 3.26 ERA and 203 strikeouts to only 35 walks. His performance got him votes for second in the American League Cy Young that season.
Schilling spent the next three years of his career with the Red Sox, and had varying results. 2005 was an awful season for Schilling, as he missed the beginning of the year still recovering from his ankle injury. When healthy, the Red Sox brought him back as their closer, and eventually moved him into the rotation. Schilling did not perform well in either role.
His 2006 season was much better, as Schilling went 15-7 as a full-time starter, and had a league leading 6.54 strikeout to walk ratio. He had a solid 2007 regular season, but he really turned it on for the Red Sox in the post season. Schilling seemed to save his best for last in 2007, as he ripped through the post season with similar success that we saw in 2004.
The Red Sox won the World Series again in 2007, and Schilling was a major part of their run. He retired following the 2007 season at 40-years-old.
Schilling had such a short career with the Red Sox, and time were not always great. However, he will always be remembered in Boston history for his major part in those two historic World Series victories.
Next: Number 29