Xander Bogaerts received a warm welcome back to Boston during Friday night’s game against the San Diego Padres at Fenway Park. It was Bogaerts’ first game back in Boston since signing with the Padres in December 2022. During his 10 seasons with the Red Sox, Bogaerts was instrumental in helping the team win World Series titles in 2013 and 2018.
The Fenway Faithful showed their appreciation for Bogaerts with a tribute video and a standing ovation. Bogaerts tipped his cap to the crowd in acknowledgment. Despite not being able to play against his former team due to a shoulder injury, Bogaerts expressed his gratitude for being able to attend the game and experience the atmosphere at Fenway Park.
During his time with the Red Sox, Bogaerts was a four-time All-Star and played the most games ever by a Red Sox shortstop, accumulating 1,410 hits and 156 home runs with an .814 OPS in 1,264 games. However, his tenure with the Red Sox came to an end after contract negotiations fell through in 2022. Bogaerts ultimately signed an 11-year, $280 million deal with the Padres in free agency.