Former Red Sox ace and three time World Series champion Jon Lester announced his retirement earlier this morning. A five time all star, he was drafted by the Sox in the second round of the 2002 MLB draft. Lester played for five teams in his 16 year career, in chronological order: The Red Sox, Athletics, Cubs, Nationals, and Cardinals.
Lester made his major league debut for the Sox on July 10, 2006 against the Texas Rangers. It’s safe to say it was not the most ideal first career start, as he threw 4.1 innings with 3 ER on 5 hits. He struck out 4 and walked 4. And though this was probably not the start he wanted, Lester definitely showed that he was much more than that.
In the middle of his rookie season, Jon Lester was struck with some very hard news, he had been diagnosed with cancer. But like the warrior Lester is, he quickly fought off the disease and by December of that year started practicing again. His first start back against the Indians, he threw six innings giving up two runs on five hits while striking out 6. He was back.
Lester would go on to have an excellent career with the Red Sox and for many years. He had many achievements in his career in Boston, including pitching the 18th no-hitter in Sox history in 2008, as well as being a critical member of the 2007 and 2013 championship clubs. Lester will always be known for his postseason heroics, being one of the greatest postseason pitchers of all time. He finished his career with a 9-7 win-loss record as well as a 2.51 ERA in October.
In 2014, Jon Lester was shipped to the Oakland Athletics along with Jonny Gomes and cash in exchange for Yoenis Cespedes. In 2015, he signed a monster 6 year, $155 million dollar contract with the Chicago Cubs, where he would be a crucial member of the 2016 world championship team. He finished his career with the St. Louis Cardinals.
Overall, Lester was a member of 13 playoff teams, three championship teams, and five all star teams. He has a career win-loss record of 200-117 with a 3.66 ERA. Lester also had 2,488 career strikeouts, so close to the 2,500 mark. Though he didn't finish his career as a Boston Red Sock, Jon Lester will always be thought of as a Red Sox hero for his many achievements with the ball club. Myself and all of Red Sox nation wish you a peaceful and happy retirement. Thank you Lester!
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