Classy Is As Classy Does

As I mentioned in an April post,  Derek Lowe's Florida home was broken into and among the many items stolen was his 2004 World Series ring.  Any member of Red Sox nation will tell you that Derek Lowe played a HUGE role in that World Series victory.  In the post season, Derek went 3-0 with a 1.86 ERA.  In the decisive Game 7 of the ALCS, he pitched on only two days rest, beating the New York Yankees and putting the Red Sox back in the World Series after an 18 year absence.  The Red Sox went on to sweep the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series.  To say that that World Series ring was extra special to Derek Lowe is an extreme understatement.  The sentimental value was priceless.

After leaving Boston, Derek spent four seasons with the Dodgers and three with the Braves.  He's now pitching lights out ball for the Indians and in mid-May the Tribe made a trip to Boston.  Before the Saturday game, the Indians travelling secretary told Derek there was someone there to see him and they had something for him.

The someone, or someones actually, was the Red Sox Principal Owner John Henry, the Red Sox President/CEO Larry Lucchino and the Red Sox Chairman Tom Werner.  And that something they had for Derek Lowe?  It was a brand spankin' new 2004 World Series ring.

Derek Lowe has never been one to be short for words but this had him speechless.  He later said,

“You know me, I can talk.   But it was one of those moments where I didn’t even know what to say.  It wasn’t like they just sent over a bat boy or sent it over.  All three of them came over to give it to me.  They said some really nice things.   ”I just don’t want it to go unnoticed.  I knew there was an opportunity for me to buy another one, but to have all three of them there when they gave it to me really meant a lot.   It’s something I’ll never forget.   It almost means more this time because it was a selfless act on their part.  I just want people to know they did this.”

To say this gesture was classy is an understatement.  It would have been considered classy for the Red Sox to simply replace the ring for Derek.  But to have the ring personally delivered by the team's top executives speaks volumes of the organization and the respect and the appreciation they have for Derek Lowe.

To the Red Sox, I tip my cap!