The fans at Fenway Park sure have had their ups and downs over the years, but these loyal devotees have stuck by the Red Sox’s side for each and every emotional moment. They’ve cheered, they’ve cried, and these are the plays that caused the most exuberant reactions throughout the history of the park since its grand opening in 1912.
Hugh Bradley’s First Homerun – 1912
Leave it to a Massachusetts native to hit the first homerun during the opening season of Fenway Park. It was April 26th, and the Red Sox were playing only their fifth game in the newly crafted park. Hugh Bradley was up to bat against Lefty Russell of the Philadelphia Athletics. The Sox were down, 6-4, and the bases were loaded. The crowd, and the team, went wild when Bradley completed what was then thought to be an unattainable feat. Of course, there have been many homeruns since, but at the time, it was thought to be impossible to hit a homer out of Fenway.
Ernie Shore’s Perfect Game – 1917
Way back in 1917, pitcher Ernie Shore made history when he pitched a perfect game against the Washington Senators after starting pitcher Babe Ruth was thrown out of the game. After walking the first batter, Ruth had more than a few words with the umpire. The incident caused his dismissal from the park, only after he threw a punch. Ernie Shore stepped in, and not a single player got on base, leading to a Red Sox victory.
Carlton Fisk Homerun Wave – 1975
In the midst of Game 6 of the 1975 World Series, Carlton Fisk made perhaps one of the most exciting plays in Fenway Park’s history. Fisk was up to bat against the Cincinnati Reds when he hit the ball which looked like it may go foul. Much like Stephen King’s Carrie, Fisk used his seemingly telekinetic ability, waving with all his enthusiasm, and it worked! The ball dinged the foul pole before heading into homerun territory, winning the game for the Red Sox. Unfortunately, they did not win Game 7.
Dave Roberts Stole Second – 2004
Red Sox fans know anguish. They know the disappointment of walking out of Fenway a loser. But, thanks to Dave Roberts, they also know how it feels to be on top of the world. It was 2004, Game 4 of the World Series. The Sox were down by three games, and were set to lose the fourth when Dave Roberts turned the tables and stole second base in the bottom of the ninth. With the game now tied, the Sox found the stamina to rally. Ultimately, it led to their first World Series win in 86 years.
The Red Sox, and many other teams, have had some of their greatest, and worst moments on the grassy field of Fenway Park. Each season, players step on the field with hopes of having their own historical moment. Did we pick the best ones? Let us know!
There are many Boston tours, but if you want to learn more about Fenway Park’s history, be sure to take one of Fenway Park’s tours to get the inside scoop.