Wade Boggs is one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, and even had his number retired by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays (now Tampa Bay Rays). His number was 12, in recognition of his 12 All-Star Game selections and 12 consecutive seasons of hitting over .300. His number was retired in 2000, the same year Boggs was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
The reason the Devil Rays retired Boggs' number was due to his tremendous career accomplishments both on and off the field. Boggs is a first ballot Hall of Famer, and leads all Red Sox players in hits (2,098), doubles (444), triples (59), walks (887), and total bases (3,006). He is one of only 21 hitters with 3,000 hits or more, and was the first to achieve that feat with 200 HRs, 1,000 Runs, 1,000 RBIs, and 600 doubles.
Off the field, Boggs is a beloved figure in the Tampa Bay community. He has made numerous appearances at the Devil Rays’ home ballpark, and is quite popular with fans of all ages. Boggs was also instrumental in bringing the Rays back to Tampa Bay in 1998, when the franchise was relocated to the city from St. Petersburg.
Boggs’ number is a constant reminder of his legendary career, and of his many contributions to the Tampa Bay area. His jersey hangs in the Tropicana Field rafters in recognition of his achievements and commitment to the region, and will forever be a symbol of baseball greatness in the city.
