FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) – Boston Red Sox catcher John Flaherty retired Tuesday, ending his 14-year career with the team he started it with.

The 38-year-old Flaherty was competing with Josh Bard and Ken Huckaby for the backup spot and to become knuckleballer Tim Wakefield’s primary catcher. Jason Varitek is the starter.

Flaherty, who signed last December as a free agent after three seasons with the New York Yankees, did not give a reason for his decision.

“It is with mixed emotions that I am announcing my retirement,” said Flaherty, who also played with Detroit, San Diego and Tampa Bay. “Thank you to all of my teammates, coaches, managers and fans for making the ride so much fun.”

The Red Sox drafted Flaherty in the 25th round in 1988 and he made his debut with them in 1992 when he played 35 games. He played 13 games with Boston in 1993 before being traded to Detroit for catcher Rich Rowland three days before the 1994 season.

“We’ll miss his presence and contributions, but we respect and support his decision,” Boston general manager Theo Epstein said.

“We’re proud that John began and ended his career in a Red Sox uniform.”

In 1,047 games, Flaherty hit .252 with 80 homers and 395 RBIs.