On March 16, JetBlue Park broke a record temperature high, hitting 90 degrees ... and it was cynically announced during the game that Boston set a snow record on the same day. Wow!
The BoSox Club held their annual Minor League Barbeque at beautiful JetBlue Park on March 16. This continues to be one of our most popular Spring Training events. The amazing Dick Flavin kicked off the event with poetic tributes. His book with be out this summer and we cannot wait!
Our guests this year were promising minor league prospects: Michael Chavis (SS/3B), Jamie Callahan (RHP), Danny Mars (OF), Luis Diaz (RHP), and Kevin McAvoy (RHP). Pawtucket Hitting Coach, Rich Gedman joined them.
Gedman enters his first season as hitting coach for Pawtucket after serving in the same capacity with the Sea Dogs, Salem and Lowell. A former catcher, Gedman signed with Boston as a non-drafted free agent in 1977 and played 13 major league seasons with the Red Sox, Astros and Cardinals. A career .252 hitter with 88 home runs and 382 RBI, he earned a pair of All-Star selections in 1985 and 1986. He served as catcher during Boston's AL pennant run in 1986 and caught Roger Clemens' 20-strikeout game on April 29th of that season.
Our Picnic In the Park took place on March 17. Our luncheon was led by MC Gordon Edes, longtime ESPN Boston & former Globe sportswriter. Members celebrated St. Patrick's Day together decked out in their best green.
Red Sox Reliever Tommy Layne was our guest. Layne signed a minor league deal with the Red Sox in 2013. He was called up on July 5, 2014. After the game, he was optioned to Pawtucket. As a result of a number of trades at the 2014 trade deadline, Layne was recalled back to the Red Sox. He should get plenty of opportunities to contribute to the major league bullpen over the course of this and future seasons.
Dick Berardino, a Red Sox legend, and player development consultant for the Red Sox, spoke to the group about his days in baseball and his thoughts for this season.
Dick Flavin once again showed his master of the English language with a dose of inspiration and laughter. A very special thanks to Dick for his commitment to the BoSox Club and for significantly enhancing the experience of members and guests at our events.
As we look forward to a great 2015 season back at Fenway Park, we will keep these memories of Spring Training with us forever.