BOSTON -- Former Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling may throw his cap into the race for Sen. Edward Kennedy's Senate seat.

Schilling said Wednesday that he was eyeing the seat left vacant by Kennedy, 77, who succumbed to brain cancer last week.

"I do have some interest in the possibility. That being said to get to there from where I am today, many, many things would have to align themselves for that to truly happen," Schilling said. "I am not going to comment further on the matter since at this point it would be speculation on top of speculation."

Some said Schilling -- who is no stranger to politics -- has name recognition and drive. He is a registered Independent, but has been a longtime Republican supporter. He campaigned for President George W. Bush in 2004, and for Sen. John McCain in 2008.

"As soon as news broke this afternoon, Republicans have been really excited. My phone's been ringing off the hook. E-mails have been pouring in," said Charles Manning, a Republican analyst.

Schilling secured his place as a Boston sports icon in 2004 when he won Game 6 of the ALCS and Game 2 of the World Series after a surgical procedure to suture a loose tendon in his right ankle. His bloodstained right sock became a part of baseball history. The 2004 World Series win snapped an 86-year championship drought for the Red Sox.

Schilling's post-baseball interest has focused on his entertainment and gaming business, 38 Studios, in Maynard. If he became a U.S. senator, it would likely mean living in Washington most of the year as a full-time politician.

Somewhat like keeping a base-runner close, Schilling didn't give an inch when pressed for details Wednesday evening.

"I saw from your blog that a lot of things have to fall into place," NewsCenter 5's Sean Kelly asked Schilling.

"Yes," Schilling said.

"Any specifics?" Kelly asked.

"No," Schilling said.

Republicans said they hope Schilling will find a reason to run as a national figure to represent the commonwealth.

"Already, it would give Massachusetts top stature in the Senate -- more than any of the other candidates I've seen floated," Manning said.

Kelly asked Schilling: "Any timeline on a decision?"

"Nope," Schilling said.

List Of Hopeful Successors Growing

Schilling is just one of several people who may decide to run for the seat. On Tuesday, Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley pulled nomination papers. Former congressman, now UMass-Lowell Chancellor Marty Meehan also is looking at the seat. Rep. Stephen Lynch and Joe Kennedy have also been named on the list of potential candidates.

On the Republican side, former Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey is reportedly still looking at the race, but sources said she is unlikely to jump in.

Andy Card, who was the chief of staff for President George W. Bush, said he is also considering entering the race.

"I am taking a hard look at the race. I am flattered by those calling to encourage me and am doing the due diligence necessary to make a decision," said Card, a Republican and former state representative.

"I feel strongly that there should not be a presumption of victory by any candidate or any party," Card said.

Card said his wife has just accepted a job as a minister in McLean, Va., and that may be a factor in his decision.