Garciaparra Retires, Joins ESPN As Analyst

Will contribute to ‘Baseball Tonight' and appear as game analyst in 2010

By David Tanklefsky -- Broadcasting & Cable, 3/10/2010 11:05:40 AM

Fourteen-year Major League Baseball veteran Nomar Garciaparra announced his retirement from the game Wednesday (March 10) but he won't be going far.  He will take on a new role around the baseball diamond as an analyst for ESPN, the network said.

Garciaparra will be seen on the network's flagship hardball show, Baseball Tonight, and will appear as a game analyst for select dates.  He will begin his work on ESPN later this month.

"After years of enjoying the privilege of playing this great game wearing Red Sox, Cubs, Dodgers, and A's jerseys in front of truly amazing fans, today I've decided to end my playing days," said Garciaparra in a statement.  "I've been blessed to have had a long career as a player and feel fortunate to continue this great journey as a member of the ESPN team."

Garciaparra finished his career, at least symbolically, with the Boston Red Sox-the team for which he played the bulk of his years and put up his best numbers.  He signed a one-day contract with Boston in order to retire as a member of the team.  From 1996-2004 he was the Sox's starting shortstop, winning two batting titles, a Silver Slugger Award and the Rookie of the Year Award.  After departing Boston via trade he played for the Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers and Oakland Athletics.  He was a six-team All-Star over the course of his playing career.

"Nomar offers the perspective of an All-Star player, recently out of the game, with experience playing in both leagues and in high-profile markets," said ESPN Senior Coordinating Producer Jay Levy, in a statement.  "His baseball knowledge and ability to relate stories from his career will enhance our telecasts."