The year 2004 seems all but a distant memory in the mind of some people, but it holds special meaning to Red Sox fans. 2004 marked the end of the Curse of the Bambino as the Red Sox brought home their first World Series crown in 86 years. Late this week, we got word that a member of that team has decided to hang up his cleats.
In speaking to a Colombian radio station, former Red Sox shortstop Orlando Cabrera says he plans to retire from baseball this offseason. Last season, Cabrera played for the Cleveland Indians and San Francisco Giants where he hit for combined .267 average. The well traveled infielder has played for the Expos, Red Sox, Angels, White Sox, A's, Twins, and Reds in addition to the Giants and Indians.
Folks in Boston remember Cabrera as "the guy we traded Nomar for"; as he was a player Theo Epstein and company acquired along with first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz at the July 31. Trade Deadline in 2004 that sent future Hall of Fame shortstop Nomar Garciaparra packing to the Chicago Cubs. Cabrera served in a platoon role with Pokey Reese at shortstop for the rest of the season.
While the trade seemed odd at the time, it ultimately the Red Sox a World Series in 2004. During his time with the Red Sox, Cabrera hit .294 with 6 homers and 31 RBI and served as the team's primary shortstop during the 04' playoffs. The Sox decided to let Cabrera walk during the offseason, as he signed with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim later on.
In his 15-year career in the majors, Cabrera hit .272 with 123 homers and 854 RBI and earned two gold gloves in his career.
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