Across the way are the pitchers and catchers, a set flanked on one side by the massive locker of Jason Varitek, who sits as the gate-keeper to an area that includes Cy Young candidates, authors of no-hitters and postseason heroes.
We know one of those vestibules will be empty and another has a pretty good chance of being cleared out. It would create an aesthetic alteration, to be sure, but will the presences of Lowell and Varitek be missed in the clubhouse?
It’s not a stretch to say that Lowell and Varitek are not the players they once were. A quick glance at any statistical category illustrates as much. Both suffered through injuries in 2010, both hit in the .230s and both fell shy of reaching double figures in home runs for just the second time as regulars. One, perhaps seeing the writing on the wall, made the decision to hang it up. The other is intent on pressing on, with the Sox or not.
But there was one other link between the two that had to leave a lasting effect on everyone who was there to witness it. With their lockers where they were, it was hard not to.
Both Lowell and Varitek, stalwarts of championship teams, were booted from the positions at which they starred in the span of several months, replaced by younger versions. And both took the news with the grace of true professionals while maintaining a competitive vision that they were fully capable of still holding down starting jobs in the major leagues.
Lowell called Adrian Beltre “the best one” he had seen at third base. Varitek quickly formed an uncommon bond with Victor Martinez, the pair taking twin leadership roles on the team.
Countless times in the history of sports a veteran has put up a stink when supplanted of his role. Not only did the Red Sox veterans gracefully step aside, they wound up being the biggest supporters of their replacements.
Sure, Lowell spoke out about his diminished role in 2010, but he had transitioned to first baseman/designated hitter and simply wondered if he was taking up a roster spot that could be better utilized by someone who could provide depth at one of the many positions that saw Boston suffer injuries. He never outwardly showed anger, but rather questioned what his role actually was.
In the end it didn’t matter much. Lowell ended his career as the regular first baseman when Kevin Youkilis was lost for the year and was feted at Fenway on the last weekend of the season.
Varitek, who had not announced any plans to resign, was also given some love from the fans that weekend after being removed between innings. The tandem was able to walk off into the sunset, or in Varitek’s case into another offseason, knowing they had the respect and admiration of those in the seats.
The same could be said for those in the clubhouse, which will have one (and maybe two) massive holes that will need to be filled in 2011.
Each day of November, we will explore a different issue facing the Red Sox this offseason.
Nov. 12: Who is the most underrated member of the Red Sox’ organization?
Nov. 14: What bargain outfielders would be a good fit in Boston if the Red Sox don’t land Carl Crawford or Jayson Werth?
