Nomar Garciaparra to Retire?

By KC Downey in Featured, Red Sox, Top Story ⋅ February 5, 2010 at 5:27am ⋅ Post a comment

Nomar Garciaparra appeared destined for the Hall of Fame, and a back-and-forth rivalry with Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter for years and years. By 2004, when he was traded to the Cubs, it appeared Nomar may be able to continue his production against weaker pitching in the National League Central.

Looks can be deceiving, and with Nomar, they certainly are. Despite the skills, Nomar never could put it all together thanks to injuries and a sometimes-questionable clubhouse attitude. Now, according to the San Francisco Chronicle, the former Red Sox shortstop is “widely expected to retire.” Despite the fact that I shouldn’t be shocked, I still am mildy surprised that Nomar can’t find any work.

According to WEEI.com’s Lou Merloni, however, talks of Nomar’s retirement may be premature. Considered one of Nomar’s closest friends, Merloni told Rob Bradford that Nomar is “still intent on playing in the majors for the 2010 season if the right situation presents itself.”

Nomar told Merloni that the calf injury that has plagued him for years feels the best it has in a while. Whether Nomar can convince some major league teams of the same thing remains to be seen.

He told Merloni he’s talked to some teams, but he wants to wait for the right offer to come his way. If he does retire, he reportedly could work with the MLB Network.

Do you think Nomar should retire?