By Tiffany Williams –
The thrill of Worcester Red Sox Opening Day reaches new heights with the WooSox’s announcement on Wednesday that the iconic Jackie Bradley, Jr. will be honored with a Ceremonial First Pitch at Polar Park on Friday, March 28, at 3:05 p.m.
Known for his stunning defensive skills and clutch performances, Bradley, the Gold-Glove-winning Most Valuable Player of the 2018 American League Championship Series, played a pivotal role in the Red Sox’s recent World Series triumphs.
The beloved center fielder, affectionately nicknamed “JBJ,” will be making his eagerly awaited debut at the home of the Worcester Red Sox, who are set to embark on their fifth season by facing off against the Syracuse Mets.
Jackie’s career kicked off in 2013, the same year the Red Sox celebrated their third World Championship within a decade. His remarkable journey reached a pinnacle five years later, as he electrified fans with a stunning ALCS performance, hitting a 2-run homer, a 3-run double, and a grand slam, totaling nine RBIs and earning the prestigious MVP Award. His brilliance on defense was further recognized when he clinched a Rawlings Gold Glove Award, solidifying his reputation as one of the game’s best center fielders.
A native of Virginia, Jackie thrived at the University of South Carolina, leading the Gamecocks to back-to-back College Baseball World Series Championships in 2010 and 2011, where he was honored as the College World Series Most Outstanding Player in 2010. Selected by the Red Sox with the 40th overall pick in the 2011 First Year Player Draft, Jackie burst onto the scene, making the Opening Day roster in 2013. Over his storied career, he has spent parts of nine seasons with the Red Sox (2013-2020, 2022) and enjoyed stints with the Pawtucket Red Sox (2013-15, 2017), donning the iconic uniform #25 from 2013 to 2016 before switching to #19 in 2017.
In addition to his remarkable time with Boston, Jackie played for the Milwaukee Brewers (2021), Toronto Blue Jays (2022), and Kansas City Royals (2023), accumulating an impressive 1,182 games in the Major Leagues. He was also named an American League All-Star during his stellar 2016 season. Last August and September, he showcased his skills with the Triple-A Syracuse Mets, further connecting him to the upcoming season.
As the WooSox gear up to open their fifth season at Polar Park on Friday, March 28, against the Syracuse Mets at 3:05 p.m., fans can look forward to a spectacular evening capped off with UniBank Fireworks set to “Baseball Classics.” Tickets are available for purchase at woosox.com, the Polar Park Ticket Office, or by calling (508) 500-8888.