Timmy Wonderpitches: The Definition of "Class"

Every time I stepped on the field, I gave everything I had. All I ever wanted to do was win. - Tim Wakefield, February 17, 2012

I don't believe in my lifetime I will ever get the privilege of seeing another athlete that possessed the character and class that Tim Wakefield exhibited every time he stepped on the field. For whatever need the team had, in whatever role the gave him, Tim always gave his all. During his retirement speech, he explained how he felt honored to have had the chance to play on the same field as some of the greats. I only hope he can walk away from the game knowing that so many of us felt just as honored to have the opportunity to watch him play.

We love Tim Wakefield here in Boston. I know this isn't the last we've seen of him, but for all the wonderful moments we've shared together through the years, thank you, Tim. I wish you nothing but the best in your retirement.

Here are some of the better Wakefield pictures from my collection that I could find. I didn't always have the best seats, or a good camera, but I got what I could.

My first ever game at Fenway. Wakefield pitched. Tek and Bellhorn hit home runs. Sox won.

Wakey and Timlin, Spring training 2006

Pictures from Sept 12, 2007

Trying to get Wake, but got most of Schilling instead. Obviously 2007 victory parade.

April 22, 2009

April 20, 2010

May 22, 2011

Timmy attending The Varitek Charity Putt Putt, 2011

September 13, 2011

Congratulations on a wonderful career, Tim Wakefield. I guess that old knuckler will only be knuckling in back yards from now on. The things I expected to last forever...