George Kirby took a moment to pay tribute to Tim Wakefield at Fenway Park by throwing a knuckleball to kick off the Seattle Mariners’ game against the Boston Red Sox. Kirby had been planning this gesture for weeks as a way to honor the legendary Red Sox pitcher. In an interview with The Seattle Times, Kirby expressed his admiration for Wakefield, stating that he was a special player and that he had always enjoyed watching him play.
Tim Wakefield, who passed away last fall after battling cancer, spent 17 seasons with the Red Sox and played a crucial role in their World Series victories in 2004 and 2007. Kirby, who is a Yankees fan at heart, revealed that he started throwing knuckleballs because of Wakefield’s influence. Despite the Mariners’ loss to the Red Sox, Kirby was pleased with how the tribute pitch turned out, joking that he was just relieved it didn’t end up as a home run.
During the game, Kirby pitched just over five innings, giving up two runs and recording two strikeouts. Despite the loss, the Mariners remain in contention for the top spot in the AL West standings. The game ended with the Red Sox securing a 1-0 victory in the 10th inning thanks to a RBI double from Rafael Devers.
Kirby’s act of honoring Wakefield on the mound was a heartfelt gesture that showcased his respect for the game and its legends. As he continues his career in the MLB, Kirby will carry with him the memory of paying homage to one of baseball’s greats.