[Big Six]

145 Bowdoin Street
Worcester, Massachusetts

Mr. Patrick O'Farrell
148 Cherry Street
Stockbridge, Massachusetts

November 29, 1927

Dear Pat,

I have been reading all the speculation in the newspapers about your retirement, which according to some of the scribbling scribes, is all but a certainty. I know you and I have had several conversations about the topic over the past few months; you have spoken to me about it as a player to his manager, and as a man to his friend. I have hesitated to give you any specific advice, because once I was in your shoes. I chose to retire before I was "fired," and I know you would like to make the decision to leave the game on your own terms, as well. Sarah and I, and anyone else you might discuss the matter with, can give you guidance, but the decision is ultimately yours.

Having said that, I would be failing in my duty as manager of the Boston Red Sox if I did not say to you that I hope you will return for at least one more season. You were the most productive player at your position in the league, and when the benefits of your leadership are added to your tangible contributions, you leave no doubt that you remain one of the most valuable players in all of baseball. To put it simply, there is no second baseman in the world I would rather have in my lineup.

I understand what you say about not being the player you once were. At forty years of age, our reflexes slow a little bit; we take longer to recover from the exertions of a Sunday doubleheader; that ball we would have put in our pocket skips through for a hit; that pitch we would have hit off the wall is popped up or missed. On the other hand, the years of experience you have had enable you to position yourself a half-step in the proper direction when a hitter steps to the plate, so that he hits a ground ball right at you instead of slapping it through the hole, or wait out a pitcher for a walk, giving us a baserunner when we need one most. That kind of contribution cannot be measured, and as you well know, can turn a good team into a champion.

While I also understand your desire to retire from the game quietly, I would ask you to think about one more thing. You are without doubt one of the most beloved athletes and public figures in Boston, indeed in the entire United States. You would never admit it yourself, but that humility only adds to the high regard in which you are held. You belong to New England, and your many fans throughout the region would greatly appreciate the chance to say "good bye" as you play your final season.

I know how much you miss Sarah and your children over the course of the season, because I am a family man myself. I also do not flatter myself that my opinion will hold as much weight with you as do those of your wife and family. However, as I said, as your friend and manager, I feel it necessary to express my feelings to you, and hope you will consider them as you make your decision.

Pat, I know you well enough to know that you will make the decision that is best for you, your family, the Boston Red Sox, and your fans. Also, please know that as your friend, I will support you no matter what you decide.

Please give my best to Sarah, Elizabeth, Mike, Mary Catherine, Johnny, and Billy, and accept our best wishes for a joyous holiday season.

Sincerely, your pal,
Bill