After coming over in a trade with the Seattle Mariners in 1997, Varitek's accomplishments ranged from compiling over 1,300 hits and three All-Star appearances to helping the Sox end their 86-year World Series drought in 2004.
The Captain became legendary in Boston when he went head-to-head with nemesis Alex Rodriguez, which helped spark the iconic '04 Red Sox-Yankees brawl.
Now, after spending 15 seasons in a Boston uniform, the long-time catcher has decided to hang his jersey up for good.
With family and some teammates on hand for the ceremony, Varitek announced his retirement on Thursday in an emotional news conference at the Sox' new spring training facility in Fort Myers, Fla.
Check out photos of Varitek's retirement news conference by clicking here>>
