In an emotional moment at Fenway Park, the first pitch that truly mattered was not the 95.8 mph throw from Brayan Bello in Boston’s 7-1 loss to the Orioles. Instead, it was delivered by 18-year-old Brianna Wakefield, daughter of the late Red Sox legend Tim Wakefield, symbolizing a poignant tribute to her father’s legacy.
Approximately 40 players from the renowned 2004 Red Sox team stood behind Brianna as she threw the ceremonial first pitch to Red Sox coach Jason Varitek. The heartfelt gesture was a touching reminder of Tim Wakefield’s impact on the team and the community.
Tim Wakefield, the beloved knuckleballer who played for the Red Sox from 1995 to 2011, passed away from brain cancer on the final day of the 2023 regular season. His wife, Stacy Wakefield, also tragically succumbed to pancreatic cancer in February, marking the first baseball game at Fenway Park since their passing.
Former teammates and friends of Tim Wakefield, including Trot Nixon and Johnny Damon, fondly remembered his contributions both on and off the field. Stacy Wakefield, though less in the spotlight, was equally dedicated to philanthropic efforts, standing alongside her husband throughout their two decades together.
Jason Varitek, who formed a close bond with Tim Wakefield during their time as teammates and neighbors, expressed his heartfelt support for Brianna and her brother, Trevor. Varitek and his wife Catherine have been a source of comfort for the Wakefield siblings since their parents’ passing.
Brianna’s pitch, thrown in a Red Sox uniform bearing her father’s number, was a deeply moving moment for all in attendance. The gesture symbolized the enduring legacy of Tim and Stacy Wakefield, evoking emotions throughout Fenway Park.
For Wake. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/y9HLebAHSK
— Red Sox (@RedSox) April 9, 2024
In a private ceremony earlier that day, former Red Sox reliever Mike Timlin assured Trevor and Brianna that they would always have the support of the extended Red Sox family. Johnny Damon, reflecting on the 2004 championship team’s bond, emphasized the enduring spirit of unity and love within the Red Sox community.
As Brianna walked off the field with the ’04 World Series trophy, presented to her by Damon, the profound love and support felt by the Wakefield siblings underscored the enduring legacy of their parents within the Red Sox family.
