Julio Lugo Leaning Toward Retiring After Caribbean Series

by Ricky Doyle on Mon, Feb 4, 2013 at 6:03PM

Julio Lugo is prepared to call it a career.

Lugo, who was the Red Sox’ starting shortstop when they won the 2007 World Series, indicated to MLB.com that he’s leaning toward retiring after the Caribbean Series ends on Friday

“It might be [the end], unless something comes that changes my mind,” Lugo reportedly said. “But I think this is going to be it for me.”

Lugo sat out all of 2012, so there was already some question as to whether he’d ever catch on with another big league squad. The 37-year-old waited until now, though, to express his decision to retire. The infielder will reportedly dedicate more time to his kids and a construction business he has in the Dominican Republic.

Lugo played for seven teams over the course of his 12-year career, including parts of three seasons with Boston from 2007 to 2009. He’s, of course, remembered throughout Red Sox Nation as the guy who failed to live up to the four-year, $36 million contract he inked with the Sox prior to the 2007 season. It’s clear that Lugo doesn’t have many regrets, though.

“I played good and had a good career,” Lugo said, “and I just think it’s the right time now.”

A career .269 hitter, Lugo last played for the Braves in 2011.

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