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

Monday, April 08, 2019

GoLocalWorcester Sports Team

Former Boston Red Sox closer Keith Foulke will lead Worcester’s little league opening day celebration at Hanover Insurance Park at Fitton Field.

“Every year our Fan Fest and Spree Day allows us to honor the local kids and parents who help keep youth baseball and softball running strong in Worcester. One of my favorite moments each year is seeing the teams from all the Little Leagues fill the field for the opening ceremonies,” said General Manager Dave Peterson.

The event will take place on Saturday, April 20 and is hosted by the Worcester Bravehearts.

About Foulke

Foulke, who played on four teams in his Major League Baseball career, played three seasons with the Boston Red Sox from 2004 - 2006.

He was a member of the 2004 World Champions and he earned a save in Game 4 to clinch the World Series sweep for the Red Sox over the St. Louis Cardinals.

Prior to his time in Boston, he played for the San Francisco Giants, Chicago White Sox, and Oakland Athletics. Foulke made the All-Star team in 2003, and was named the best relief pitcher in the American League that year, receiving the AL Rolaids Relief Man Award.

After retiring in 2008, he has since taken on a coaching role with the Red Sox. 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.

Opening Day Celebration

The Bravehearts annual Fan Fest and Spree Day will celebrate Worcester’s nine youth baseball and softball leagues with an opening day parade on Fitton Ave. led by Foulke.

The parade is expected to begin at 9:00 AM and will ultimately lead youngsters onto Fitton Field for league introductions and the National Anthem.

Foulke will address the crowd around 9:30 and give them a pep talk for opening day.

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 until 11:00 AM with Keith Foulke as soon as he is done speaking with the Little League players on the field.

As in previous years, there will be a giant scavenger hunt in the ballpark, except this year it will be an Easter Egg Hunt and it will take place in the Fitton Football Stadium.

Fans can also stay for Holy Cross baseball’s double-header against Lafayette, with the first game starting at 1 pm.