An emotional Jason Varitek announced his retirement today at the Boston Red Sox' spring training facility in Ft. Myers, Fla.

The Red Sox catcher and captain had a 15-year career during which he became one of the most accomplished players in franchise history.

Varitek, who debuted in 1997 after arriving in a trade from Seattle, holds the Red Sox record for games caught.

Varitek was part of two World Series winners, and his punch of Alex Rodriguez on July 24, 2004, helped turned that season around.

Varitek caught the final out delivered from Pedro Martinez in 1999 when the Red Sox won their first playoff series in 13 years.

Noted for his defensive play and ability to handle pitchers, Varitek caught a record four no-hitters. Here, he celebrated with Hideo Nomo after the pitcher held the Baltimore Orioles hitless on April 4, 2001.

On May 20, 2001, Varitek blasted three home runs in a 10-3 win at Kansas City.

Varitek was on the field when the Red Sox completed their historic four-game comeback against the Yankees in the 2004 ALCS.

Seven days later, he and Keith Foulke celebrated the Red Sox' first World Series win in 86 years.

After that season, the Red Sox re-signed Varitek, who was a free agent, and named him the team captain.

On April 22, 2007, Varitek joined three teammates in tying an MLB record with four straight home runs against the Yankees.

Six months later, Varitek and Jonathan Papelbon celebrated the Red Sox' second World Series title in four years.

Varitek was a three-time All-Star who became a fan favorite in Boston for his determined style of play and his longevity.

Varitek leaves the Red Sox as the team record holder in postseason game appearances.