In 2004, a championship was won and history was carved into the lore of baseball in Boston, when the Red Sox defeated the St. Louis Cardinals to seize the World Series title, snapping their legendary 86-year title drought. Johnny Damon, a key player in that triumphant roster, was the first to clutch the glistening trophy, which he promptly handed to Tim Wakefield – a pitcher who had risen from the ashes of his season-ending home run given up to the Yankees in the prior year’s playoffs.
Fast forward two decades to the 20th anniversary of that monumental victory, and Damon found himself facing déjà vu as he famously presented the trophy once more. Only this time, it was Wakefield’s daughter receiving the honor, as her legendary father could only cheer on from above.
“Fulfilling to say the least, passing this trophy to Wakefield’s kin,” Damon confessed after Tuesday’s jubilant ceremony ahead of the home match against Baltimore. “They’re growing, living, while grappling with heartache. But they always have us, the team of ’04, their extended family. We are their steadfast support. Particularly for Brianna, should love come knocking, there’s sure to be a troop of protective uncles standing by.”
Tragedy struck the Wakefield household last year, as the household saw the loss of both Tim and his wife Stacy to grueling battles against cancer within the span of five months. He was 57. The Red Sox have chosen to emboss heart-shaped No. 49 patches onto their uniforms this season, a heartfelt eulogy for the late knuckleball pitcher. A poignant tribute video featuring the affable couple, beloved for their charitable contributions in the Boston neighborhood, was played with fitting highlights from the victorious 2004 run.
Indeed, the day was brimming with sentimentality at Fenway Park. Celebrations brought together familiar faces from the 2004 team, including former manager Terry Francona, David Ortiz, and Manny Ramirez, among more than 40 others. Wakefield’s conspicuous absence was notably felt.
Brianna and Trevor, the late Wakefields’ children, led the ’04 team members onto the field with the World Series trophy in hand for the ceremony. Brianna went on to toss the ceremonial first pitch to former catcher and current assistant coach Jason Varitek, surrounded by the figures of her father’s past.
The team had last assembled for the 10th anniversary celebrations. Damon, known for the distinct long hair he sported during his baseball days in Boston, quipped, “Maturity has treated us well. Our bond remains intact. There are few we dearly miss.”
Underpinning the day’s proceedings at Fenway was the profound affection and reverence Boston bears for Wakefield and the seminal 2004 team. “We’re more than a team, we’re a family,” Damon declared. “As Wakefield’s legacy lives on in his kids, they will continue to rely on us. And we pledge to be there every step of the way.”
