At some point in his media session Friday morning, Bruce Bochy tried to politely hint to reporters that he was tired of talking about his future. Bochy had already answered about a half-dozen questions about his decision to retire at the end of this season and his last home opener.
This is not, however, a city that is going to allow the future Hall of Fame manager to go out quietly.
Bochy received a standing ovation that lasted more than 90 seconds when he was introduced Friday. The loudest cheers are usually reserved for Madison Bumgarner and Buster Posey, but on this day the manager was the star. He tipped his cap multiple times and at one point turned to master of ceremonies Jon Miller and encouraged him to move on to a player. But Miller and the Giants fans wouldn't allow it.
Bochy stood, the emotion clear on his face, as both teams and the fans continued to cheer. He was brought out again at the end of the ceremony and threw the first pitch to Pablo Sandoval, who gave him a hug, as the rest of the roster stood behind the mound.
This is Bochy's 13th and final home opener with the Giants. Before the game, he said he had not given much thought to the importance because he was too focused on preparing for Rays, an unfamiliar opponent who may use two openers this weekend.
Bruce Bochy got a very long standing ovation before his final home opener with the Giants: pic.twitter.com/sEwcppDCTS — Alex Pavlovic (@PavlovicNBCS) April 5, 2019
