« POSTGAME: Papelbon shares the credit
Main
POSTGAME: Dynasty? Wasn't that a bad 80's soap opera? »
October 29, 2007
By JOE McDONALD
Journal Sports Writer
DENVER -- The first thing Jon Lester wanted to do after the Red Sox won the World Series was to grab the Commissioner’s Trophy and bring it to his parents out on the field.
He wasn’t able to snag it right away, but the family shared a special moment because of what the Lester family has been through ever since Jon was diagnosed with cancer in August of 2006. Last night was the culmination of an intense year, and Lester earned the victory on the mound for the Red Sox.
''That’s probably the single most important thing that happened if you look at the broad picture,'' said Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein. ''This kid was facing the most serious challenge any of us will ever face, and in just a little over a year he comes back and is the winning pitcher in the World Series deciding game. It’s a fairy tale. It’s not an accident. He’s a great kid and was a model for our entire organization with the courage he displayed in tackling his illness, and now it’s fitting he led us to victory.''
Rockies manager Clint Hurdle said recently when asked about Lester, that it’s fitting this young man will pitch in Game Four of the World Series.
''God has his finger prints on this one,'' said the Rockies manager.
Lester, sporting the biggest smile anyone has seen on him since he’s been in the organization, agrees.
''You couldn’t have written a better story,'' he said. ''It’s unbelievable how this turned out. A year ago I knew I would be back in baseball, but I didn’t know when. In this situation with these guys it just unbelievable. I’m just glad I could go out there and help and compete and do well.''
The celebration was no doubt a team effort, but every player in the Sox’ clubhouse felt a little something extra for Lester and what he’s been able to do.
“I’m tremendously proud and happy of the performance of Jon Lester because that’s what is closest to me,” said catcher Jason Varitek.
Posted by Joe McDonald 
at 1:53 AM | Permalink
