Schilling says good-bye, Lowell also a possible free agent

"Let's do the math: When you're a free agent and the Yankees are not only in the mix, but now one of the potentially most interested suitors, the price changes. And that's not a bad thing for him."

Schilling said it did not bother him that Rodriguez's announcement came during Boston's coronation. But he seemed to relish the opportunity to take a shot at the Red Sox rivals' disappointing season.

"It wasn't unexpected," Schilling said. "Between them and the Yankees making sure we were updated every 15 minutes about when they were actually going to name their manager, I didn't give a crap. Bottom line was they're playing golf and making organizational decisions and we're still playing games."

Schilling's comments came on WEEI-AM, which has a promotional arrangement with Schilling's charity, Curt's Pitch for ALS. He also wrote a 2,108-word posting on his blog and promised to update fans on the status of his free agency.

"If October 28, 2007, was the last time I ever wear this uniform, thank you," Schilling wrote. "It was an honor and a privelage (sic) to be allowed to play here."

Catcher Jason Varitek wasn't ready to say goodbye.

"I hope it's not the last time I see these guys," he said at Fenway Park before the parade. "I'd like to see Curt retire in this uniform."

But first baseman Kevin Youkilis wasn't in the mood to think about the future. Asked if any players were saying goodbye in the clubhouse, he said, "Next question."