New York Yankees legend Derek Jeter returned to Yankee Stadium on Monday night, receiving a hero’s welcome as he threw out the ceremonial first pitch before Game 3 of the World Series.
The former Yankees captain joined Alex Rodriguez and David Ortiz on the MLB on Fox broadcast, but it was his presence that set the crowd ablaze.
Derek Jeter receives warm welcome in Yankee Stadium, Ortiz faces jeers from Bronx crowd
As Jeter took the mound, fans erupted in chants, celebrating his return to the Bronx. Yankees fans maintained that energy, carrying their enthusiasm into the game against the Dodgers. Jeter’s first pitch and his presence with Rodriguez on the broadcast resonated powerfully with the Yankee faithful, who took every opportunity to remind the crowd of their loyalty.
On the other hand, Ortiz, the Boston Red Sox legend and three-time World Series champion, was met with a contrasting reaction. Situated between Jeter and Rodriguez on the centerfield Fox set, Ortiz faced chants of “Papi sucks!” The Boston icon attempted to engage with the crowd, responding, “It’s my turn now. My turn,” but the jeers only intensified. Smiling through the chants, Ortiz could only laugh as Rodriguez joined in the light-hearted moment, gently patting Ortiz’s hand.
Despite the Yankees’ 0-2 series deficit, fans packed Yankee Stadium, marking the team’s first World Series home game since 2009. Before Jeter’s first pitch, hip-hop artist Fat Joe performed, rallying the crowd further as fans filled the upper deck with cheers.
While Ortiz has been a consistent figure on Fox’s baseball broadcasts, his legacy with the Red Sox remains firmly in the minds of Yankees fans. A fixture of the fierce Yankees-Red Sox rivalry, Ortiz’s presence in the Bronx served as a reminder of the teams’ storied history. The atmosphere underscored the different receptions for Jeter, a Yankees legend, and Ortiz, a Boston icon.
The Yankees entered Game 3 hoping for a win to avoid a 0-3 series hole against the Dodgers. With Jeter’s first pitch and the crowd’s passion on display, Yankees fans showcased their allegiance, honoring one of their own while underscoring the enduring rivalry with Boston.
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