BOSTON — The Boston Red Sox are retiring Wade Boggs’ number 26.

The third baseman played 11 seasons with the Red Sox from 1982 to 1992 and was an eight-time All-Star during that time.

The now 57-year-old Tampa, Florida, resident was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005.

Boggs had a career batting average of .328 in 18 seasons that included stints with the New York Yankees and the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. In 1999, Boggs became a member of the 3,000-hit club, reaching the milestone with a home run.

“I am so humbled and honored,” Boggs said in a statement released by the Red Sox. “To say that your number will never be worn again is the highest honor an athlete can receive.”

Boggs hit .338 in his 11 seasons with the Red Sox, second only to Ted Williams, who batted .344 in 19 seasons.

Boggs helped the Red Sox reach the postseason three times, including the 1986 World Series.

He lead the American League in batting five times and batted over .360 four times, including a career high of .368 in 1985 when he had 240 hits.

Boggs also had 200 or more hits in a season seven times, a Red Sox record.

A ceremony is scheduled for May 26 at Fenway Park where Boggs’ number 26 will take its place on the ballpark’s right-field facade.

“Wade Boggs was the best third baseman in Red Sox history and one of the best hitters of his generation,” Boston owner John Henry said in a statement. “Whether it was his legendary hand-eye coordination or the discipline of his highly superstitious routine, his ability to hit line drive after line drive was remarkable.”

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