Former Red Sox Arroyo to Lead Worcester’s Little League Opening Day Celebration

Wednesday, April 04, 2018

GoLocalWorcester Sports Team

Bronson Arroyo

Former Boston Red Sox pitcher and World Series Champion Bronson Arroyo will be in Worcester to lead the Little League Opening Day celebration hosted by the Worcester Bravehearts.

“This Fan Fest and Spree Day is a spirited way our team can honor the kids and parents who keep youth baseball and softball so vibrant in our city. I was inspired to see all of the kids and coaches lining the infield for opening ceremonies last year, and I think the turnout this year will be even better. I’ve met Bronson once before and found him to be personable and energetic, so I think everyone will have a blast with him on April 21,” said Bravehearts General Manager Dave Peterson.

The celebration will take place on Saturday, April 21 at Hanover Insurance Park at Fitton Field.

About Arroyo

Arroyo, who played on four teams in his Major League Baseball career, is best-known for his three seasons with the Boston Red Sox from 2003 - 2005.

He was a member of the 2004 World Champions and had a memorable appearance in Game 6 of the American League Championship Series against the New York Yankees that year when Alex Rodriguez slapped the ball out of his glove in a controversial tag play at first base.

Arroyo went on to play nine seasons with the Cincinnati Reds — making the All-Star team in 2006 and winning a Gold Glove in 2010 — and one season with the Arizona Diamondbacks before retiring last season.

He is also a well-known musician and released his debut album, Covering the Bases, in 2005.

In his appearance at Fan Fest, he will address the Little League teams on the field and will also sign autographs and pose for photos with fans.

Fan Fest

The opening day parade on Fitton Avenue is expected to begin at 9:00 a.m. and will lead kids onto Fitton Field for league introductions and the National Anthem.

Hank Stolz of Unity Radio will serve as Master of Ceremonies with opening day remarks from Mayor Joe Petty and District 4 Administrator Linda McGill before Bronson Arroyo pumps up the crowd with his pep talk. The event is open to the general public beginning at 10:00, with Bravehearts’ single-game tickets and merchandise going on sale as well as free autographs with Bronson Arroyo as soon as he is done speaking with the Little League players on the field.

Fan Fest also features free hot dogs, popcorn, and lemonade to the first 1,000 guests in attendance. Plus, fans have a chance to “Swing for Your Seat” in the afternoon — a promotion that allows fans to attempt to hit a home run in batting practice for a free Bravehearts season ticket this summer.

A scavenger hunt in the stadium is an annual staple at Fan Fest, and this year is no different. The MA Office of Economic Empowerment will roll out its $eedMA Program with a giant piggy bank scavenger hunt in the seats. The program is designed to help families invest in their child’s higher education through a 529 college savings plan, and it has already launched in schools such as Rice Square, Vernon Hill, and Union Hill in Worcester.

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