Roche: My Favorite Fenway Memories
BOSTON (CBS) - With the 100-year anniversary of Fenway Park's opening upon us, many of us are reflecting on some of the special memories it's provided.
Here are a few of my favorites:
- I used to be able to get a special pass when I played American Legion baseball in the 1980's that allowed you admission into the park. We would then see who didn't show up and go sit wherever we could. Did it a few times and it was a blast! Once saw Gary Allenson hit a grand slam in extra innings in the pouring rain.
- I began covering the Sox in the early 80's for Curt Gowdy's radio station in Lawrence. I wouldn't talk to anyone, just stuck my microphone in post- and pre-games. It was cool.
- The 1999 All-Star game was unforgettable. Seeing all those great players surround Ted Williams was pretty cool.
Read: Dan Roche's Sports Blog
- Any time Pedro Martinez pitched was a holiday in itself. Best pitcher I've ever seen in person. Threw a baseball like a wiffle ball.
- I will never forget the sound of Trot Nixon's Game 4 walk-off home run off of Rich Harden to send the Sox to a Game 5 in the 2003 ALDS.
- I used to stand by my usher friends for the final innings of postseason games when the Sox made their incredible runs from 2003-2008. First base side ramp. Soaked in every bit of it and made sure to look around and feel the passion.
- The ring ceremony in 2005 was also tremendous, when Mariano Rivera got a standing ovation, tipped his cap, and smiled.
Beyond that, every day has been a treat for me at Fenway.
Believe it.
I still like to get there early and sit in silence in the stands.
Fenway to me is like the ocean is to many people.
Very calming (and yes, I am a dork!).
Follow WBZ-TV's Dan Roche on twitter @RochieWBZ
