< Back to Front Page Text size +

Remy visits TV booth during tonight's game

Posted by Adam Kilgore, Globe Staff August 12, 2009 05:26 PM
Remy visits the NESN booth
(Jim Davis / Globe Staff)

Popular Red Sox television analyst Jerry Remy attended manager Terry Francona's press conference this afternoon and visited the NESN broadcast booth for an inning tonight. It was the first time Remy has been seen at Fenway Park for a game since his leave of absence because of complications following his recovery from lung cancer.

"I lost between 20-25 pounds. You saw me in spring training, you saw me at the beginning of the season. It was my fault, I wasn't ready to start the season," Remy said during his on-air visit with Don Orsillo and Dennis Eckersley at the top of the second inning. "It probably would have been wise to take a month off, and maybe come back and be OK after that. You saw the kind of decline happen in Cleveland early in the season where I started to slip into a depression really. I think everything came crashing down at one time. The cancer stuff, the infection. I wasn't able to do my job. And basically for the last couple of months, I've been getting treatment for that."

"I'm nervous, I'm nervous," Remy replied when Orsillo asked him what it felt like being back in the broadcasting booth. "This is very different but it's a nice step for me to be able to come back to the ballpark today... it's been very therapeutic."

Remy said for a while his condition was pretty bad, but his health has been improving. "With the therapy I'm getting, and the medications I'm getting, I'm back on the right track, and hopefully, hopefully be back soon to see the Red Sox into the playoffs." Remy would not set a date for his return, saying that he's missed a couple of deadlines already.

"I feel terrific, physically," Remy said. "I've been going to the gym for the last couple of months and I've gained the weight back that I've lost."

Remy also spoke to WCVB-TV (Ch. 5) sports director Mike Lynch before the game. Remy's comments, in full, are below:

"Since last season, it was kind of weighing on my mind. I didn’t know what it was. I went into the cat scan with the understanding that at the end of the season they would have to take that out. Dr. Ronin saw a spot on my lung. He went in the week before Thanksgiving, they took that out. That couldn’t have gone better. There was no follow-up treatment. Cat scan after three month. No chemo. No radiation.

Then after that, I got hit with an infection, right at the end of January into spring training. I was back at mass general for 10 days. Three weeks of antibiotics. That was probably worse for me. It all started crashing down on me. I had therapy for that. I had lost 25 pounds. Looking back on it, it was probably my fault that I went to spring training. It was an easy schedule. I thought if I could get started, I could get going. But I wasn’t ready. I wasn’t strong enough. Emotionally, I wasn’t ready. Physically, I wasn’t ready.

So I started to crash. Probably in Cleveland. Don (Orisillo) saw the crash first hand. It wasn’t fair to Don to work one day, not work. It wasn’t fair to the company. It all finally came crashing down on me. I had been fighting depression the last couple of months. I got therapy for that. Trying to get my meds right. Physically I’m back. I got the weight back on that I’d lost because of the infections. And mentally, I think I’m on the right path. Doctors told me to expect that sort of thing. They’re kind of surprised I didn’t crash before I did. The cancer part, I couldn’t have been luckier thanks to Doctor Ronin at Mass General. They caught it very early. Things that happened after that…

I plan on coming back this year but I can’t put a date on it. I’ve already passed two deadlines of my own. As I said at the beginning, when I come back, I come back full time. I’ve got a date in mind, but I don’t want to say what it is because I’ve already missed a couple of my dates.

Look, people go through this stuff all the time. It’s been hard. There’s no way around it. It’s been very hard. Because you’re doing a job, it makes it twice as hard. I can’t watch the games. I watch the national games. But the home games I can’t watch. I’m supposed to be there. It makes me feel guilty. It breaks me down even more. I’m aware of what’s going on.

I’ll tell you something. Never in my wildest dreams… I have boxes and boxes and boxes and boxes of cards, letters, prayers, kindergarten schools’ letters, tweets, emails. I can’t believe. In a way, you feel like you’ve done something right for these people. It’s awfully nice. And there’s no way I can get back to them. If I get back on the air, that’s the way I’ll thank them. Overwhelming. Overwhelming.

It’s kind of like a trial run, I guess. I came in last week for the McCartney concert. I made it to that OK, so I thought maybe I’d get back to see some of the guys downstairs – see Tito, some of the players, sit in on his press conference. Simulate a game.

I’m anxious. I’m not going to lie; I feel a little nervous. I just want to get back to work. Get back in the role of what I do. The pressure thing, it’s tough. It’s not easy. You know that commercial on TV where that lady cranks herself up to get up in the morning? That’s the way it is. That’s basically what it’s been like in the last couple of months. I’ve been in the gym for the last two months, I put my weight back that I’d lost from the infection. Physically, I feel fine, but mentally, the other part is tough to deal with. It’s trial and error.

You try to keep busy. I’ve been doing a hell of a lot more reading than I’ve ever done. I’ll tell you that. My wife’s been special. My family has been special. They’ve done a lot.

I’m just going to tell them the reason I’m depressed is because I’ve had to listen to Orsillo. I don’t know what I’m going to say when I’m doing the game.

I’m not ashamed of anything. People deal with cancer all the time with depression. I’m not embarrassed by that. If there’s any way I can help anybody, you know, what the hell? I’m not immune to all that. I will say this: the last two years – they knew about it last year; they didn’t know I had cancer – it’s been a difficult time. It’s taken a lot out of me. The way I feel I’m going to get that back is I’m going back to doing what I do.

As President Obama says, “I have not been perfect.” But I’ve been pretty good (at quitting smoking). It’s very difficult. It’s a terrible addiction. I’m not going to preach to the choir. I would just ask that you never pick your first one up. Once you pick your first one up, you’re screwed. Those who don’t smoke out there, don’t do it.

This was life-threatening. You get your knee fixed, you get your knee scraped out. They know what it is, you get your back operated on, you know you’re coming back. This has been – the range of emotions you go through with all of this – it seems to hit you all at once.

On that road trip at the beginning of the season, I didn’t realize how weak I was. We go out to Anaheim. I went to bed, the next morning, I wake up, I feel like I’ve been hit by a truck. And I knew right then and there, I had tricked myself thinking I could try to do this. All the things together, it takes a lot out of you. When you physically get injured, you know you’re going to get better. It’s not life-threatening.

I didn’t know until 2:30 that I was coming when I was talking to my wife and I said, “You know…” It sounds crazy, but kind of a big step was coming to the McCartney concert. When I got back to the ballpark, I felt good. The better I feel, there would have to be a day where I had to come here. I looked at it today and I thought, “What are you doing? Get in there.” I was lying around.

Yeah, it was (spur of the moment). Like I said, I have a date in mind, but I wanted to get in here prior. I wouldn’t say I’m doing great, but I’m here, with a month to go.

The best medicine is your family.

I think (a smaller schedule) would be better. I think the initial idea is home games. And if they have a big trip on the road and I’m feeling up to it, I might be there for it.

As I said it’s been overwhelming. In a way, at first, it worked against me because it felt like I was letting people down. But I was crying reading them. My wife was reading them – I couldn’t read them – while I was on the couch. And she’d read them all to me. Tito’s emailed me a thousand times. It’s been very responsive."

Boston.com's Steve Silva and Chad Finn contributed to this report.

  • CommentComment
  • Email Email

Email this article

Invalid email address
Invalid email address

Sending your article

Your article has been sent.

132 comments so far...
  1. Frankly, Dave Roberts and Dennis Eckersley have done a better job than Remy, IMHO. I'd vote to keep Roberts, in particular.

    Posted by Geriatric Cyborg August 12, 09 05:46 PM
  1. Best news I've heard since Jerry left.

    Posted by Timmy August 12, 09 05:52 PM
  1. AWESOME! And the sooner the better!!!!

    Good grief, I've never actually missed a baseball broadcast commentator before (and lord knows, there are plenty of commentators that I'd LOVE to miss - you feeling this, Joe Buck and Tim McCarver, to name a couple of the worst).

    I can't wait to hear Jerry in the booth again!

    Posted by Dave in Altmar August 12, 09 06:00 PM
  1. Just say no to smoking.

    Posted by Steve August 12, 09 06:00 PM
  1. yippie!!!!!

    Posted by bostondanno August 12, 09 06:07 PM
  1. This is great news to hear. Red Sox Nation has missed you, Remy! Hope you are doing ok

    Posted by Dan August 12, 09 06:09 PM
  1. Remy back in the booth? He must have something to promote. I haven't missed him at all. Eckersley is far better....

    Posted by keithc August 12, 09 06:12 PM
  1. I hope he's feeling better but is Jerry going to speak about the fact that his son seriously embarrassed the organization with his steroid use? I feel Jerry should comment on it since beyond a shadow of a doubt his son got the job through his father.

    P.S. Truth be told, Eck is a much better commentator.

    Posted by Rick V August 12, 09 06:12 PM
  1. Please hang in there Remy. Take however long you need...the stuff you're dealing with is no joke! Take care of yourself!

    Posted by Dan August 12, 09 06:19 PM
  1. It will be great to have you back Jerry !

    Posted by Boston rules August 12, 09 06:20 PM
  1. just hope he stays at the park for a good long time...

    Posted by danajim August 12, 09 06:21 PM
  1. I don't care that it's only for one half inning. It'll be good--nay, great--to have the RemDawg back in the booth.

    Posted by Bryan August 12, 09 06:23 PM
  1. Hooray,

    Battle on Jerry, we miss you.

    John Winske

    Posted by John Winske August 12, 09 06:24 PM
  1. Who cares?

    Posted by Not Me August 12, 09 06:27 PM
  1. Have always enjoyed Remy but his admission that he has battled depression puts him in another league. Takes more than a ballplayer and announcer to acknowledge depression and battling with it. Good work Remdog.

    Posted by Tim August 12, 09 06:30 PM
  1. Saw him on the news! He's looking great! Can't wait for him to be back.

    Posted by RemyFan August 12, 09 06:31 PM
  1. ....I'm soryy to hear that, I wish him the best of health, but his replacements,
    R doing an EXcelent job, without the "self"Promo RemDog crap....

    Posted by HandyH, Wells,ME August 12, 09 06:38 PM
  1. I hope it's sooner rather than later...we missed you!

    Posted by ljm396 August 12, 09 06:40 PM
  1. Get well Rem-Dawg! It's great to see someone confront and talk about depression like it's any other disease, because that's what it is. We're all pulling for you, Jerry.

    Posted by LizM5 August 12, 09 06:49 PM
  1. get better jerry! red sox nation misses you so much. but please take your time, make sure youve got your health straight first. im praying for you! GO SOX

    Posted by jamie August 12, 09 06:53 PM
  1. I saw Jerry being interviewed on the news. He looks and sounds great! Can't wait for him to return.

    Posted by David DeFilippo August 12, 09 06:53 PM
  1. Welcome Back Remy. We have so missed you...

    Posted by Diane August 12, 09 06:54 PM
  1. Thank you for being honest about your depression and the hazards of smoking.

    Smoking should be illegal, and I used to smoke them. It's criminal that people can buy them at CVS, off all places. If people would just alleviate their anxieties through exercise (walking), versus cigarettes, it would be a much healthier place.

    Posted by Jack Curtin August 12, 09 06:57 PM
  1. Good

    Posted by Jane X Jones August 12, 09 07:01 PM
  1. Jerry, Welcome Home.

    Posted by havoc36 August 12, 09 07:04 PM
  1. Please. no more cheese, paint, punch out or moss.
    Jerry, come back healthy and ready to go.

    Posted by NoMoreEak August 12, 09 07:14 PM
  1. Jerry,

    I am watching the game right now awaiting your visit to the booth. You have been so missed by all. I want to thank you for being so candid and sharing with the Nation why you have not been back. The most important thing is that you take care of yourself and come back when you are ready. God Bless you!

    Posted by Darlene August 12, 09 07:20 PM
  1. Wonder if he'll address his son's activity....

    Posted by Jay August 12, 09 07:34 PM
  1. Remy just totally ignored Eckersley as he apologized to Orsillo about how he had to get used to lots of play by play guys. Sorry...but..I think Remy is worried. Eckersly has done a great job.

    Posted by Steve August 12, 09 07:39 PM
  1. AWESOME!

    Posted by Ed August 12, 09 07:41 PM
  1. "the first time he has been seen at Fenway Park for a game since his leave of absence" ... When? Was it a week ago or six months ago?
    Adam, you're reporting for one of the greatest news organizations on the planet, it's advisable to provide the basics.

    Posted by Cambridge Kid August 12, 09 07:42 PM
  1. Rem-Dog, we miss you and look forward to the day your back and laughing it up with Orsillo and Wally... Get well and hurry back... The Sox need you!

    Posted by Dennis Sasso August 12, 09 07:43 PM
  1. HE'S BACK !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Posted by Mark August 12, 09 07:46 PM
  1. Come back soon Rem Dawg - Summer isn't the same without you ......

    Posted by sipower August 12, 09 07:50 PM
  1. Of course it felt great coming to Fenway to see McCartney. The guy's music has made people happy for 45 years. Happy, upbeat music must have been the perfect therapy for Jerry.

    Posted by KF August 12, 09 07:52 PM
  1. Welcome back, Jerry! You have been missed.

    Posted by Diane August 12, 09 07:52 PM
  1. It was great to hear your voice and see your smiling face. Welcome back and come back to the booth soon. Buenos Noches amigo!

    Posted by eubie August 12, 09 07:52 PM
  1. I turned on the game a few minutes ago and was THRILLED to see our RemDawg back in the booth, even just for a visit! I have been pulling for him every day, we miss him and want him BACK!! Hang in there, good days are coming for you ( AND the Red Sox!)!

    Posted by Shar Clarke August 12, 09 07:55 PM
  1. Remy looks great. So good to see him in the booth again.

    Posted by Jules August 12, 09 07:55 PM
  1. Of course it felt great coming to Fenway to see McCartney. The guy's music has made people happy for 45 years. Happy, upbeat music must have been the perfect therapy for Jerry.

    Posted by KF August 12, 09 07:58 PM
  1. Thanks for being such an outspoken human being on all your issues, Jerry. It's important for a role model like you are to be as honest and open as you have been- it gives a lot of people strength and hope, whatever they are dealing with. A big thank you for that.
    Best of luck getting back to the booth and continue to TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF. I know your wife is right there with you and that it the best.

    from a big fan

    Posted by alisondra August 12, 09 07:59 PM
  1. We love you Jerry and hope that you will be back real soon!

    Posted by kamckenney August 12, 09 08:04 PM
  1. Jerry, it was wonderful seeing you on TV tonight! I hope you know that Red Sox Nation loves you, and we can't wait to see you back doing the games again! Keep getting stronger!!!

    Posted by MM August 12, 09 08:04 PM
  1. Now that Jerry is back......... we have our MOJO back

    Now the tides will turn

    Posted by mjb August 12, 09 08:06 PM
  1. Jerry Remy is a class act....the Red Sox games have not been the same without him. I wish him a speedy recovery and continued health. Jerry - take your time coming back and wait until you are well enough - physically, mentally and emotionally - all of us in Red Sox Nation will be waiting for you with open arms. God Bless.

    Posted by Ang & Keith from Peabody August 12, 09 08:09 PM
  1. Buenas Noches Jerry!

    Can't wait to have you back. Thanks for sharing your story.

    JB in Maine

    Posted by John B. August 12, 09 08:10 PM
  1. Buenas Noches Jerry!

    Can't wait to have you back. Thanks for sharing your story.

    JB in Maine

    Posted by John B. August 12, 09 08:10 PM
  1. Jerry, Great to see you in the booth tonight. Great to know that you are doing fine.
    I want to commend you for speaking about your bout with depression. Depression is something that has always been squirrled away in the closet, not to be spoken about. It takes a brave man to get in front of a small crowd, let alone Red Sox Nation, and talk about being depressed and having a battle with depression. Keep up the good work on all the playing fields. Looking forward to seeing you in the booth again, be it guest or host. Mine and my wife's prayers and best wishes go out to you and your family. We think of you often, always well.
    Joe and Jeannine

    Posted by Joe Wood August 12, 09 08:12 PM
  1. We aren't going anywhere, so take care of yourself and get well. We are certainly looking forward to your return but not at the expense of your health. You're the best Dawg I know.
    Get well and see you soon.

    Posted by kjjoconnell August 12, 09 08:12 PM
  1. Just get better jerry ,and do what you do best,and get back in the booth

    Posted by yank15 August 12, 09 08:19 PM
  1. get well Jerry before John Henry's best boy friend Mao-Bama decides you aren't a useful taxable member of society

    Posted by bunglejunny August 12, 09 08:20 PM
  1. Come on back when you're ready, Jerry. We definitely miss having you in the booth, but you have to make sure it's the right time for you. We'll be waiting!

    Posted by MikeH August 12, 09 08:22 PM
  1. Take your time, Remdog! Nice to see you in the booth!

    Posted by Opinion1 August 12, 09 08:22 PM
  1. Get back to us soon, RemDawg.

    Posted by rory August 12, 09 08:24 PM
  1. what about jared? Where are his comments on that...

    Posted by jack o' pearce August 12, 09 08:26 PM
  1. We patiently await your return Remdawg!! It was so good to see you for that short time in the booth where you belong!!! I wish you the best in your recovery with both cancer and depression, I can relate to the latter. You are a strong, proud and positive man who will be back before you know it!!
    God Bless You!!!

    Posted by WeMissTheDawg August 12, 09 08:32 PM
  1. We've all missed you and look forward to your return but you gotta take care of yourself and come back when you're ready. Boston has the best sportscasters and color analysts in the country and you're the best of the best.

    GodSpeed Jerry

    Posted by Ernie Cormier August 12, 09 08:33 PM
  1. Stay retired Jerry, for your, um, health. Yeah that's the ticket.

    Posted by Artie August 12, 09 08:35 PM
  1. Remdawg...glad to hear & see that you are getting better. Red Sox nation can't wait to have you back.

    Posted by iceman75 August 12, 09 08:35 PM
  1. I wish Jerry well but I really enjoy the Ek.

    Posted by hugh johnson August 12, 09 08:43 PM
  1. Hopefully tonight was a relief for Jerry. The 1st step back is the toughest. Depression isn't easy to understand unless you have suffered through it...those who haven't, don't understand how crippling it can be. Seeing him at least answered a lot of questions his many fans had about his health. Our thoughts & prayers are with him & his family. He'll be welcomed back with open arms when he returns for good.

    Posted by Snowman August 12, 09 08:54 PM
  1. Take your time Uncle Jerry, we miss you, but want you to be healthy and happy!

    Posted by FrankD! August 12, 09 08:55 PM
  1. Get well soon Rem!

    Posted by Jeff Abbott August 12, 09 08:58 PM
  1. Remy has been fairly lucky- I have a friend who is half his age, and breathing his last breaths because of lung cancer, that spread from a malignant tumor in his pelvis.

    Lets find a cure for this disease quick, if not for my buddy, than for someone else's.

    Posted by Stellar August 12, 09 08:59 PM
  1. Is it me or are we seeing something special with the Red Sox? First we see the complete picture of happiness in Jim Rice, then we see the anquish in Jerry Remy. Then the fan's reactions! It is nice to watch.

    Posted by Joe from Westport August 12, 09 09:02 PM
  1. Jerry - it was sooooo good to see you today and to hear from YOU how you're doing! I can't wait til you're back where you belong - with Don! I have missed you two so much this season - the sox games just aren't the same without you guys together. Be back soon - stay healthy and happy! We love you and miss you!!

    Posted by jacki August 12, 09 09:05 PM
  1. Having just gone through a major life changing surgery myself I can really relate to the mental aspects of getting back on track. Take your time and be honest with yourself as to how much you can really do. In time Remdog will be back where he belongs.

    Posted by CBGB August 12, 09 09:12 PM
  1. Rem-Dawg's candid discussion of depression will make a HUGE difference to many, many people.

    Posted by Frank57 August 12, 09 09:16 PM
  1. What a wonderful surprise to see you in the "Booth" tonight. You have been missed. Don't be nervous about your return. Many will be glad to see you back.
    There is no combination like "Remdawg and Orsillo!!

    Posted by Jo August 12, 09 09:17 PM
  1. Jerry.
    I'm originally from New York , never a Yankee fan ( Dodger fan until the bastards left us ). I started watching the Sox because my wife is a big fan. To be honest, I just watched for the after game sex ( not with you, with my lovely wife). Then I found out that you made it fun. Not like sex , but still fun. Miss you. Get back to work. We are all getting depressed without you

    Posted by Hank August 12, 09 09:26 PM
  1. So great to see you Jerry and know that you're on the mend. It was hard not know what was going on, and it was great today to know that we can look forward to seeing you when it's the right time for you.

    Posted by Greenmtnsox August 12, 09 09:39 PM
  1. Jerry's comments on life...I think many of us can relate; very appropriate and well said. Best wishes to Jerry and his family, see you again soon.

    Posted by jw August 12, 09 09:39 PM
  1. What a great surprise this evening to see Jerry in the booth. He is an insporation to everyone that when things are tough he got the help. If more people would admit and get help and not hide it you would be doing a big service to yourself family and friends. God Bless Jerry

    Posted by Rich Wells August 12, 09 09:40 PM
  1. all i gotta say is go Rem Dawg

    Posted by thommy August 12, 09 10:04 PM
  1. Depression is the Great Debilitator. I know having been out of work for 45 days in 1994. Everything on the outside looked alright but I just couldn't make it through the work day. The anxiety, etc. It finally got so bad I could no longer drive a car. To people without depression that may sound incredible but it's true. Your world gets extremely small and agorophobic. But like Jerry, medication eventually brought me back.

    Posted by Todd August 12, 09 10:11 PM
  1. Awww, Rem, I'm so glad you're on the mend. Millions of people have wrestled with depression and it sucks so much. Good for you for being so typically open and candid. You will be happy again, and sooner than you think.

    We miss you, and will be glad to have you back as soon as it feels right.

    Posted by Xenophile August 12, 09 10:23 PM
  1. We love you Jerry,

    Come back when it is right. Get well. Good to see you tonight!

    Posted by HubbDave August 12, 09 10:26 PM
  1. Great to see you Jerry! We wish you the best and look forward to hearing you again when the time is right.

    Posted by Pete August 12, 09 10:28 PM
  1. Good to see you again Jerry! Godspeed.

    Posted by Foxfam August 12, 09 10:35 PM
  1. god bless you Jerry We miss you

    Posted by Richard August 12, 09 10:35 PM
  1. If Remy returns, which I assume he will, what will the Sox do with Eck?

    Personally, I am a big Eckerslely fan ...

    Posted by J August 12, 09 10:44 PM
  1. God Bless you Jerry Remy, we're pulling for you 100%

    Posted by Dsolomon August 12, 09 10:45 PM
  1. Jerry Remy is the president of red sox nation and we need you back in the booth!

    Posted by Steve Poitras August 12, 09 10:46 PM
  1. Jerry Remy is the president of red sox nation and we need you back in the booth!

    Posted by Steve Poitras August 12, 09 10:56 PM
  1. We love you Jerry!

    Posted by Cojito August 12, 09 10:58 PM
  1. Jerry we love you. You take care of yourself and take the time you need and the Nation will always be there for you.

    Posted by Sully68 August 12, 09 10:58 PM
  1. Remy willingness to talk openly and honestly, with no shame, about his depression and need for medications will help dispel the negative image of depression and treatment- especially among guys. Many men do not recognize they are depressed, and if they are frequently feel shame and try to deny it. Often self destructive consequences result.

    Posted by shtarka August 12, 09 11:08 PM
  1. get better jerry! you've got lots of fans out there

    Posted by malcolmcj August 12, 09 11:08 PM
  1. Remy willingness to talk openly and honestly, with no shame, about his depression and need for medications will help dispel the negative image of depression and treatment- especially among guys. Many men do not recognize they are depressed, and if they are frequently feel shame and try to deny it. Often self destructive consequences result.

    Posted by shtarka August 12, 09 11:09 PM
  1. UGH! Jerry Remy is SOOOO overrated as an analyst! Dennis Eckersley is a more refined, thought-provoking analyst. Eck and Orsillo(who is sooo annoying and he think he's so funny) are a better team!

    Posted by joey T August 12, 09 11:15 PM
  1. get well soon RemDawg and hope your back as soon as you feel up to it, you looked like your ole self tonight

    Posted by TMartin August 12, 09 11:22 PM
  1. We love ya remdog, it was great to see you, come back soon! We love Eck and Don too! Hope there's a way to fit all3 into the booth!

    Posted by Carl August 12, 09 11:23 PM
  1. Sooo glad to finally get an update on Jerry, and from him himself, AND getting to see him back where he belongs!!! Loved it!! Hopefully sooner than later Eck will have to pack up his "cheese" stories. You are good Eck, but no one can replace the RemDawg!! =o) Great News Tonight!!

    Posted by Kim in Clinton, CT August 12, 09 11:24 PM
  1. Roberts and Eck are doing a fine job, but NO ONE will replace Remy. He's a god at NESN and at Fenway. Get well, and welcome back Jerry!

    Mike G.
    San Jose, CA

    Posted by Mike Greenwood August 12, 09 11:31 PM
  1. You have to admire his honesty. That's part of the reason he's able to connect to people so well as a broadcaster - way to go RemDog!

    Posted by Red Sox/Bruins Fan August 12, 09 11:35 PM
  1. Mr. Remy, I was at the game tonight, and saw you in the booth not knowing you were going to be there. It was great to see you looking healthy and smiling and waving in your green shirt.

    Thank you for talking candidly about depression as it relates to illness. The guys will listen to you, and learn it is OK to acknowledge that having a serious disease can affect your life at at the root level.

    Posted by yupokay August 12, 09 11:38 PM
  1. For all those that think Eck is better....get real. Maybe if Eck dumped all of the little annoying one liners he might be decent. After having to listen to Eck and Roberts for the year, I absolutely can't wait until Remy is back. Keep getting better Remy, you are sorely missed.

    Posted by Go Remy August 12, 09 11:43 PM
  1. You would keep Dave Roberts? Are you freakin nuts? The guy is so damn boring and unfunny!!!

    Posted by Joe from Medfid August 12, 09 11:46 PM
  1. Keep Orsillo and Eck in the NESN booth and add the RemDawg as the third when he's back for good - get well Jerry!

    Chris Perry
    Norman, OK

    Posted by Chris Perry August 12, 09 11:47 PM
  1. Thank you Jerry for being so frank and honest about your experience. I'm sure many other people will benefit by reading about and hearing from a role-model who can talk about his own difficult experience with physical and mental health.

    It will be good to see you back in the booth and I hope you get some more opportunity to share some of your experience at appropriate moments and demonstrate that it is possible to recover from such an experience.

    Posted by John W Gintell August 12, 09 11:50 PM
  1. Good to hear Remy's coming back. There was something about his voice just sounding "normal" for a Sox game tonight. I loved hearing Monty the other day too. Thing is, I love Eck now, so I really hope there's a rotation. I never thought I'd say that since I hate the 3 man booth (and please don't go there please), but Eck on the road and Remy at home some would be ok I guess. Eck has to stay now if he's interested.

    BTW, I quit smoking after 15 years of it in all of 3 terrible days. That's all it took on the physical part. Mentally it's taken months but it's totally possible for anyone to quit..

    Posted by rsr1 August 12, 09 11:56 PM
  1. Jerry Remy knows baseball and is usually right on with his commentary. Dennis Eckersley knows pitching but talk about egotistical. It's not the Dennis Eckersley show. It's all about ME with Dennis even if he does make light of it. And talk about repetitive.... Eckersley needs a new vocabulary. These people commenting negatively about Remy have no class. He is a good person and is a separate entity from his son. His son is his personal business to which he owes NO explanation. Get healed and come back soon Mr Remy. The Red Sox Nation needs your karma...thanks for the memories and I know many many people that have had fun listening to you including my mother and father.

    Posted by Walter August 12, 09 11:57 PM
  1. Personally, I like Remy AND Eck. I'd love to see all three in the booth--and they could make it work. Eck is unique and Demdawg is, well, Remdawg.

    Posted by McGreevy August 13, 09 12:00 AM
  1. There is nothing like having a local voice up there commenting on the game. Remy brings that slight accent and killer baseball instight to the table during every broadcast.
    Boston folks know their baseball and Remy just compliments the essence of Fenway and the Red Sox.
    I'm psyched to see him doing better!

    Posted by DotRat August 13, 09 12:00 AM
  1. Eckersley has done a great job. And Remy is beloved.

    How about NESN dump the goofy Don Orsillo?

    Eck and RemDawg!!!!

    Posted by JulieinMaine August 13, 09 12:02 AM
  1. I couldn't stop smiling, watching RemDawg back in the booth -- and seeing the standing O when they showed him on the scoreboard -- and the tears in his eyes. Eck has been tiresome, Roberts above average, Montgomery informative. But the Red Sox are family -- even despite the reality of all the trades that go on. And Jerry Remy is a beloved uncle.

    I was relieved to see him -- had feared that the cancer was worse than it was. Depression is no bargain, obviously. We'll hope and pray for the best

    Posted by Jack in Columbus (OH) August 13, 09 12:06 AM
  1. Thanks for having the courage to share your journey with us, Jerry. Take your time, be well and can't wait to have you back in the booth.

    Posted by Lily28 August 13, 09 12:06 AM
  1. Remy spent years doing all sorts of self-promotion on NESN's dime, something we have not heard from Eck or Roberts. Separate maudlin confessionals (Will Remy be on Dr. Phil or Oprah?) from real professional baseball analysis, something Remy's work never showed much of. To "Go Remy," I respectfully disagree with his claim.

    Posted by Geriatric Cyborg August 13, 09 12:24 AM
  1. Smokers - you have this to look forward to, if you live.

    Posted by John Harrington August 13, 09 12:27 AM
  1. Roberts is awful. Eck is ok, but now every time I hear the word "cheese" I wince, it is soooo annoying! And what's with this "punch out" crap?
    I'm looking forward to having the RemDawg back in the booth. Get well & God speed!

    Posted by mgb1969 August 13, 09 12:28 AM
  1. I think Jerry Remy is terrific! His knowledge of the game and explanations for me has been great! I even bought his book, and learned so much about the game and rules of baseball.

    I have to say that I have sooooo enjoyed Dennis Eckersley. He's quite funny, actually, and I love the descriptions and nicknames of various things.


    Sandra

    Posted by Sandra August 13, 09 12:43 AM
  1. It was awesome to see Jerry back in the booth tonight...he is the heart and soul of Red Sox Nation. He's the person who's given the Red Sox fan base an identity and cohesiveness that no other team can come near. He is not, as someone earlier stated, a self-promoter - he promotes the fans, the game and what it truly means - fun and great good humor for all the family. My daughter has grown up watching the Remy/Orsillo team and never once have I worried about what she would hear during one of their broadcasts. And as for "self-promoters"... I cringe every time I hear Ek say "back when I was in the game, pitching" yada, yada. Welcome back Jerry!! Take your time and thanks for letting us know how you are.

    Posted by The French Ladies of NH August 13, 09 12:50 AM
  1. It was awesome to see Jerry back in the booth tonight...he is the heart and soul of Red Sox Nation. He's the person who's given the Red Sox fan base an identity and cohesiveness that no other team can come near. He is not, as someone earlier stated, a self-promoter - he promotes the fans, the game and what it truly means - fun and great good humor for all the family. My daughter has grown up watching the Remy/Orsillo team and never once have I worried about what she would hear during one of their broadcasts. And as for "self-promoters"... I cringe every time I hear Ek say "back when I was in the game, pitching" yada, yada. Welcome back Jerry!! Take your time and thanks for letting us know how you are.

    Posted by The French Ladies of NH August 13, 09 12:50 AM
  1. I am happy that he is getting healthy but I hate to say that I think Eck is a better and kinda wish that he would be his permanent replacement.

    Posted by jason August 13, 09 12:52 AM
  1. I have to post another positive message because so many bitter nasties have to post to be mean. Seriously, if you dont have something nice to say, why waste you time and effort to post something negative. Losers.

    Eck has done a great job filling in, but I miss Jerry. It was so great to see you, and ditto for me on the courage to talk about depression. Please know you are loved by many. You and Don laughing over spilled beer and thrown pizza in the crowd helps keep a slow game fun!

    Posted by toots August 13, 09 01:01 AM
  1. Roberts should quit the business but Eck is great. Almost as great as Remy. Remy's son is a turd and should F himself and die.

    Posted by F Manny August 13, 09 01:19 AM
  1. eck is okay -- he's pretty funny and has his own take on things. he and don have some pretty clever banter about cheese and stuff. roberts doesn't seem quite as relaxed to me-- he's too darn respectful and polite. but i love remy. i think he's hilarious for one thing. and always with plenty of insightful things to say, and no bull. i listen to all the announcers across the country via mlb extra innings, and i think remy is the most down to earth, and the most fun to listen to listen. he's not a blowhard like jim palmer, or a total homer like ken harrelson. i really think he's a great announcer, and i've missed him a lot, and was just wondering tonight when the guy was gonna come back. so come on back, rem-dog, we love ye.

    Posted by Dave Crowell August 13, 09 02:47 AM
  1. Glad you're getting better Jerry. I know it's difficult to admit to depression, especially publicly. Perhaps those that suffer can learn from you help is available. Also, I always enjoy you're broadcasts, but have to admit Eck has done a superb job filing in. Not an easy task filing those shoes.

    Posted by jimmy August 13, 09 03:53 AM
  1. I admire Remy even more by so candidly discussing his depression. Very courageous. Get back soon, Remy, but don't rush it.

    I must say, I have enjoyed Eck's perspective on the pitching side and his commentary has been superb, despite his cheese and hair and salad lines. But just think of it as sitting next to Eck in the bullpen as he watches the game live and waits for the call.

    And of course nothing can top having Dave Roberts--the man who single-handedly lifted us from despair in 2004 and executed the single most important play in Red Sox history--in the booth and calling the game too. That has been so cool, but again, would much rather prefer Remy over Roberts.

    Eck has capably filled in for Remy, but I nonetheless hope that the RemDawg is back soon. I particularly miss Buenos Nachas.

    Posted by BrettR4763 August 13, 09 05:13 AM
  1. Eck is pass-able, but he's no Remy. And I hate to say it, but Bill Simmons was right about the health of the president of RSN a few years back.

    Posted by Chris L August 13, 09 05:20 AM
  1. I am with you, Go Remy. It's painful watching games where Roberts is in the booth, to the point where I'd almost rather watch it while on mute. And Eck, meh...I'm so sick of "cheese". He isn't that great.

    Can't WAIT for Jerry to be back!! Couldn't be happier to know he's doing well!

    Posted by curvyycutiee August 13, 09 05:30 AM
  1. You can debate which commentator you like better - personally I love both Eck and Remy - but one thing is undeniable: Mental health issues have too long been swept under the rug. As a public figure, Jerry Remy is showing remarkable courage to openly discuss the debilitation that depression brings. Quit smoking, ask for help if you are facing a mental health challenge, and if you are fortunate enough to survive either, spread the word. With these three messages, Remy is saving lives, which is a lot more important than who's in the booth.

    Posted by shefscott August 13, 09 05:32 AM
  1. Who's the hot chick with the headset on in the photo? That's the real story!

    Posted by NoTorreUs August 13, 09 05:39 AM
  1. Get well soon Rem. I'll miss Eckersly though, he's definitely the better announcer and cracks me up all the time. They should keep Eck when the Remdawg comes back and have a 3-way announcing team or something.

    Posted by nlrsox August 13, 09 06:00 AM
  1. Glad that Remy is getting well.

    Remy is good and I'd take him over a lot of other announcers but I like Eck better for the following reasons. First, he talks half as much as Remy. Remy doesn't shut up and yaps straight through the game. It's like sitting next to a couple of people at the game that won't shut up and watch. Second, Eck doesn't try to sell Eck Dogs, The Eck Report, Eck Eck Eck. I'm was sick and tired of all Remy's self-promotion. It's like the game became The Remy Show. When the broadcaster's ego/persona gets bigger than the event he's covering, time for a change. Red Sox are the show. Not Remy, not the dating game, not any of the other crap. I think that Red Sox management probably likes the other crap because it expands the fan base to markets other than baseball fans. I don't expect a change though I would love one.

    Posted by MrPete August 13, 09 10:00 AM
  1. Jerry, I was so excited to see you in the booth last night! We've missed you so much... it just hasn't been the same! The Wally schtik was always especially fun. I have been watching constantly for news about your progress...looks like it won't be too long now! Please don't allow the pressure to overwhelm you...take all the time you need. But know this: there is no substitute for REMDAWG!!!

    Posted by Luci & Bill August 13, 09 01:40 PM
  1. True friendship is when 2 people can instantly pick up where they left off without missing a beat. Jerry and Don... True friends. I love to watch and can't wait to have the couple back together again. Summer '09 just isn't the same....

    Posted by Steve August 13, 09 02:12 PM
  1. It was great to see RemDawg last night...and to those who say Eck et.al... are better or that Jerry is a self promoter... you don't know what you are talking about. As a member of RemDawg Nation living in PA, I was selected for a free pair of his tickets, for the Evil Empire no less, and will be making a once-in-a-lifetime trip with my 71 yr old Mother to Fenway next week. All because of Jerry Remy!!! He has touched more lives in more positive ways than ANY of us could hope to. I can't wait to hear him get Orsillo to laugh once more.

    Posted by Scott Scrivner August 13, 09 04:04 PM
  1. Please God no! Glad he is doing better but his schtick is long tired and worn out. Between the Remdawg merchandise, the Wally 'stuff', the air guitar and other useless info, he never talks baseball anymore and just drags Orsillo down into his ridiculous side-shows. I far enjoy Eck and his comments....at least he talks baseball. The best is Buck Martinez and Orsillo....they did a few games together on TBS or Fox...I forget which.

    Posted by Paul Justin August 13, 09 04:05 PM
  1. Interesting and informative. But will you write about this one more?

    Posted by Cornelius August 20, 09 06:32 AM
  1. Thank you! You often write very interesting articles. You improved my mood.

    Posted by Ventego August 22, 09 08:17 PM
  1. Oh, Gawd, please bring back Eck!

    If I have to see that freaking Wally doll in the little Adirondack chair one more time, I'm going to gag.

    I wish him the best of health, but Remy is AWFUL.

    Posted by MB August 26, 09 08:41 PM
add your comment
Required
Required (will not be published)

This blogger might want to review your comment before posting it.

The Boston Globe and Boston.com will keep you updated on the Red Sox all season long.
The Globe's Red Sox team
Meet the Globe's Red Sox team (left to right): Nick Cafardo, Amalie Benjamin, Adam Kilgore and Tony Massarotti

Red Sox Twitter

    Waiting for Twitter.com...
Extra Bases on your blog
An easy-to-install widget to get the list of our latest links on your blog (or your iGoogle page).
archives

browse this blog

by category