When Bill Buckner took the mound for the ceremonial first pitch, the Boston Red Sox players were among the loudest to cheer. Kevin Youkilis made a point of meeting Buckner and shaking his hand.

Here is what manager Terry Francona and Youkilis said of the moment:

FRANCONA: That was one of the most special things I think I've ever seen.

To watch his reaction and to watch the fans reaction was very special. I was happy for him. I was thrilled for our fans. I was happy for our organization. I thought that was a very special moment.

YOUKILIS: I've probably never almost been in tears for somebody else on a baseball field. I think that was just the most unbelievable thing. It shows how great a man Bill Buckner is.

There's not too many people that can do what he did today and face thousands of people that booed him (years ago), threatened his life, did horrific things toward him, and when they speak his name they think of just horrible things.

And for the man to step out on the field ... I wanted to shake his hand because that's a true man in life."

Well, that's all from Fenway for tonight. Please see the stories in Wednesday's Press Herald, and I'll check in with you soon.

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