Pedro Martinez Best Year: Was it 1999?

Since the Red Sox announced this week that they'll be retiring no. 45 in honor of Pedro Martinez, it's time to look back on one of the greatest seasons a MLB pitcher has EVER had. 

1999: 23-4, 2.07 ERA, 313 Ks,  213.1 IP

This was one of those years that had Where Were You When moments. Three of them to be exact.

Pedro Strikes Out Five in First 2 Innings of All-Star Game at Fenway Park

I was on vacation with my family staying at a lake house with no cable. We had to crowd around a small TV at Poor People's Pub (it was before the HD days). I still get goose bumps every time I watch it.

Pedro Fans 17 in Yankee Stadium

I was in the living room of a high school friend. We set up our K tally board in the back room (much to his mother's chagrin). This is back when the Red Sox Yankees rivalry was real.

Pedro Comes on in Relief; Game 5 ALDS

Earlier in the series Petey had pulled out of Game 1 with back problems and it was typical Red Sox bad luck from there. When Pedro starting warming up in the bullpen it was like someone rising from the dead to save all of humanity. (Can't forget about Troy O'Leary hitting a grand slam AND a three-run homer in the game) I was at home watching the game by the way nothing exciting.

In my opinion Pedro is up there with the Birds, Bradys, and Orrs in this town. He will be inducted into the MLB Hall of Fame on July 26th.