2/6/2008 - AC Retires Buchholz Jersey
When Clay Buchholz took the mound for the Boston Red Sox on September
1, 2007, the rookie right hander proceed to make history for both his
team and major league baseball, becoming the first Boston rookie – and
just the third major leaguer since 1900 – to fire a no-hitter in only
his second start.
But before anyone in Red Sox Nation had even heard of the youngster
from Lumberton, TX, Buchholz had made his mark as an Angelina College
Roadrunner.
Playing for the ‘Runners in 2004 and 2005, Buchholz set single-season
records that still stand: His 1.05 ERA in 2005 is a team best, as are
his 29 strikeouts that season.
All those accomplishments were mentioned during half time of Wednesday
night’s men’s basketball game at Shands Gymnasium, as Buchholz stood
at halfcourt with his former coach, Jeff Livin, and helped retire the
No. 11 jersey the current Red Sox pitcher wore as a Roadrunner.
With a full crowd of former teammates, fans, college instructors and
coaches on hand, Buchholz thanked all those who, he said, “gave him a
chance.”
“There were teachers and coaches here who just kept pushing me to do
the best I could do in the classroom and on the field,” Buchholz said.
“They never allowed me to believe anything else except that I could
become successful.
“I’m very grateful for what they did for me here.”
Following the ceremony, Buchholz autographed baseballs, jerseys and
game programs for the large contingent of children present.
Buchholz said he’s scheduled to Red Sox spring training within the
next three weeks. He finished his rookie campaign with a 3-1 record, a
1.59 ERA and 22 strikeouts.
And, of course, the no-hitter.
