A Hometown Hero

Boston Red Sox centerfielder Jacoby Ellsbury received a hometown hero's welcome in Madras, Oregon, the place where he grew up, and he was clearly moved by the reception. He had this to say...

"The parade in Boston was amazing, but this is even better," he told the crowd to cheers. "You guys are incredible."
Ellsbury wiped away a tear as Madras Mayor Jason Hale proclaimed it Jacoby Ellsbury Day. He recalled being so nervous he almost threw up driving to the ballpark for his first start for the Red Sox, and pitcher Josh Beckett advising him, "Just don't screw it up."
Asked what advice he had for kids who wanted to follow in his footsteps, Ellsbury said, "I kept my nose clean and worked hard. They can do that."

Peter here, and you have to feel happy for him. And that's great advice, too. We know he'll be a fixture in centerfield and batting leadoff (most likely) for the Sox for many, many years to come, and it couldn't have happened to a nicer and more talented guy. Said to resemble a young Johnny Damon, Jacoby thrilled us with his jetlike speed on the basepaths and in the outfield, chasing down fly balls and line drives with the ferociousness and speed of a wild cheetah. Jacoby, we salute you. Our centerfielder. And that's just so great.

Click on the title of this post for the entire Boston Globe article, and enjoy your Sunday, a day where snow makes it's first close brush with southern New England. Be well...be happy, and I'll answer any and all comments. You're the best!