During Dustin Pedroia’s retirement ceremony, the longtime Boston Red Sox second baseman was overcome with emotion thanks to David Ortiz’s tribute.
Back in February, longtime Boston Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia announced his retirement from the game after 14 years. Over four months later, the Red Sox held his official retirement ceremony in front of fans at Fenway Park prior to a pivotal rivalry game against the New York Yankees. And yes, there were tears shed during the on-field tribute.
During the ceremony, Pedroia’s longtime teammate David Ortiz appeared on the jumbotron and gave a heartfelt tribute to the gritty infielder, who was overcome with emotion while listening.
Red Sox: Dustin Pedroia overcome with emotion listening to David Ortiz’s tribute
It was truly a moving tribute by Ortiz, who said if he were to pick one teammate to play with for the rest of his career, it would be Pedroia.
Former teammates Pedro Martinez, Tim Wakefield, Jacoby Ellsbury and Mike Lowell were in attendance for Pedroia’s retirement ceremony. Besides Ortiz, former manager Terry Francona, David Ross and former Red Sox broadcaster Don Orsillo also sent in video tributes to Pedroia for his big day. Oh, and there was a surprise appearance by professional wrestling legend Ric Flair, whom Pedroia was stoked to see.
During his 14 years with the Red Sox, Pedroia won two World Series titles, four Gold Gloves, a Silver Slugger, four All-Star Game nominations, the 2007 AL Rookie of the Year award and the 2008 AL MVP award.
Pedroia’s career may be over, but he will forever be remembered by Red Sox fans around the world who had the privilege of watching him play.