Red Sox safety Dave Mellor announces retirement

Dave Mellor, the Red Sox starting pitcher at Fenway Park for 23 years, announced Saturday that he will retire after Sunday’s game.

Mellor spent 39 seasons in Major League Baseball, also tending diamonds for the California Angels, San Francisco Giants and Milwaukee Brewers. Once called the “Rembrandt of groundskeeping” by Brewers icon Bob Uecker, legendary Fenway groundskeeper Joe Mooney chose Mellor to replace him in 2001. That was enough to lure Mellor from Milwaukee, where Mellor also spent eight years maintaining historic Lambeau Field for the nearby Green Bay Packers.

“With mixed emotions, I am stepping down from my day-to-day responsibilities as Senior Grounds Manager of the Boston Red Sox,” Mellor wrote on social media just before the start of Saturday’s game against the Rays at Fenway Park. “I look forward to contributing to the industry and causes I care about while spending time [with] my family and my puppies. I am humbled and humbled to have worked 39 years in the MLB.

Mellor thanked his wife and family for “their support over the years and their understanding of the many hours it takes to take care of an MLB field.” He also thanked Bud Selig and the Brewers for giving “a persistent young man the chance to come into the industry and prove himself.”

Mellor, considered one of the best in his industry, has published two books about his business. “Picture Perfect: Lawn, Landscape, and Sports Mowing Techniques” is considered the textbook for lawn models; Mellor also published “The Lawn Bible, How to Keep It Green, Cared for and Growing Every Season of the Year.” He co-wrote or contributed to 11 other books.

His shearing patterns have been featured at the American Folk Art Museum and in an international art exhibition.

“Please remember that every day you wake up is a big day and take the time and choice to celebrate this day, telling those around you how important they are because life happens quickly,” Mellor said in his message. “To all lawn enthusiasts, we share a similar passion: mow like a pro and have fun! »

Mellor, who has spoken about his battles with mental issues in the past, also wrote “One Foundation at a Time: How I Survived PTSD and Found My Field of Dreams.” In his announcement, he acknowledged that the counseling had greatly improved his quality of life.

“To anyone facing challenges, please know that you are not alone, that help is available and that treatment works,” Mellor said in his message. “I used to think asking for help was a sign of weakness, now I know it’s a sign of strength. I am proud to be a survivor. Everything is possible, one base at a time!!!