David Ortiz and Jason Varitek, two of the four remaining pieces from the 2004 World Series team, have been together for the last eight seasons. Needless to say, the pair have quite a bond.
Upon hearing the report of Tek's return for at least one more season behind the Fenway Park dish, Big Papi expressed his excitement as if the two were long-lost siblings.
"That’s like hearing my brother is coming back," Ortiz told The Boston Globe from his charity event in the Dominican Republic. "He is part of the family and it’s important for us to have him on the team. That is really good news."
The slugging designated hitter isn't the only one happy to see the captain back. Not only will his knowledge rub off on young backstop Jarrod Saltalamacchia, but Tek's ability to call a game behind the dish has helped the Sox pitching staff thrive over the last 13 seasons.
"I love when he’s behind the plate," reliever Daniel Bard told the Globe. "It’s a comfortable feeling. Having him is like having another pitching coach with everything he knows. A lot of guys are going to be very happy to hear this.
"Tek’s knowledge is something we wouldn’t be able to replace had he left," Bard added.
