Projo Sox Blog

By KEVIN McNAMARA

BOSTON - Nomar Garciaparra just wrapped up a 21-minute news conference with the New England media that was at times reflective, opinionated, open and downright refreshing.
Time has apparently done wonders for Nomar's relations with the press. Sox fans recall that when he left town in 2004 at the trade deadline, Nomar had asked for a piece of white tape to be installed 5 feet in front of the player's lockers to keep the preying media at bay.
Anyways, Garciaparra spoke openly about his love for the Red Sox fans and how he felt he was a part of the `04 World Championship even after he was traded to Chicago. He also spoke about a genetic condition that makes it difficult for him to receover quickly from muscle pulls. He battled hamstring and leg injuries while with the Red Sox and a calf injury has limited him to 31 of 80 games with Oakland this season.
Garciaparra said he ``was on the verge of retiring in the off-season last year'' and isn't sure how much longer he can play.
"I have a genetic condition that I was born with. I found that out last year," he said. "I spent so much effort and time on my body and to finally hear that it was nothing I did or nothing I could've prevented, it's just what I have."
Garciaparra's condition causes excess scar tissue to develop at the injury site and that slows his recovery and increases the likelihood that he could reinjure himself later.
"I knew coming into this year that I'd be a utility guy, a part-time guy filling in wherever I can. I wasn't expecting to play every day despite what the heart and my body wants to do," he said.
"Now that I know I have it, I'm pretty grateful that I've come this far. I'm grateful for everything I've been able to experience."
As for the fans' reaction to the face of the franchise in the first few years of this decade, it will be strong. Expect a lengthy standing ovation and Garciaparra to tip his helmet when he comes to the plate. He is the A's designated hitter tonight.
"I hope Nomar gets the ovation he deserves," said Orlando Cabrera, the shortstop the Sox traded Garciaparra for. Cabrera is currently Oakland's starting shorstop.

 Tags  Nomar Garciaparra

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