"Everybody dreams about going home and playing in front of their hometown."
When Giants rookie outfielder Mike Yastrzemski stepped on to the field at Fenway Park last night, he was home.
But it was more than just a place he grew up. He was back where it all started for his grandfather, Hall of Famer Carl Yastrzemski. But now it was Mike's turn to put on a show in front of Boston Red Sox fans.
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Sure, it's a story you've heard repeated many times, but it's one that needs to be told.
"I grew up as a diehard Red Sox fan, just like every kid growing up here," Mike said in an interview posted by the Giants.
Mike knew it was a special moment, but not just for him -- one for everyone who watched his grandfather play during his 23-year career. And he was happy to take advantage of it.
"You never know if it'll happen again."
San Francisco Giants
The media scrum engulfed the 29-year-old who took questions from the dugout. Then the two were reunited, walking along the field that witnessed the entirety of Carl's career.
MLB Network's Peter Gammons also spoke to Carl and Mike, and Carl compared seeing his grandson play at Fenway that of his 1967 season. The same season where Carl hit for the Triple Crown and led the league in multiple other categories including on-base percentage (.418), slugging (.622) and OPS (1.040). He also earned an All-Star selection, his sole MVP honor and a Gold Glove Award.
Carl was thrilled knowing the Yastrzemski name would be announced at the park that night. And Mike knew the responsibilities it takes carrying that name.
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"To be able to share an experience like this is special."
When it was time for Mike to take his first at-bat at Fenway of his professional career, he rightfully received a standing ovation and would later hit a home run.
It was then we were reminded just how beautiful this game is.