"Everybody dreams about going home and playing in front of their hometown."
Giants rookie outfielder Mike Yastrzemski stepped on to the field at Fenway Park.
He was home.
But it was more than just a place he grew up. He was back where it all started for his grandfather, Hall of Famer Carl Yastrzemski. But it was his turn to put on a show in front of Boston Red Sox fans.
Sure, it's a story you've heard repeated many times, but it's one that needs to be told.
Young Yaz was in familiar territory being from the Boston area, but as a member of the opposing team as the Red Sox played host to the Giants this week.
Sports
"I grew up as a diehard Red Sox fan, just like every kid growing up here," Mike said in an interview with the Giants.
"This is special. And it's not just special for me, for everyone who had ever seen my Grandfather play and has been a Red Sox fan." --@mikeyaz18, on his Fenway Park debut#SFGiants pic.twitter.com/fTkFkzneuQ— San Francisco Giants (@SFGiants) September 18, 2019
He knew it was a special moment, but not just for him -- one for everyone who watched his grandfather play during his 23-year career, one that needed to be grasped on to and taken in. And he was happy to take advantage of it.
"You never know if it'll happen again."
The media scrum engulfed the 29-year-old who took questions from the dugout. Then the two were reunited, walking along the field that witnessed the entirety of Carl's career.
MLB Network's Peter Gammons spoke to Carl and Mike simultaneously and the moment the 18-time All-Star compared seeing his grandson play at such a historical place was that of his 1967 season. The same season where Carl lead the league in multiple batting categories including RBIs (121), on-base percentage (.418), slugging (.622) and OPS (1.040). He also earned an All-Star selection, his sole MVP honor and a Gold Glove Award.
Carl was thrilled knowing the Yastrzemski name would be announced at the park that night. And Mike knew the responsibilities it takes carrying that name.
[RELATED: Yaz homers at Fenway, just like his grandpa]
"To be able to share an experience like this is special."
When it was time for Mike to take his first at-bat at Fenway of his professional career, he rightfully received a standing ovation and would eventually hit a home run.
It was then we were reminded just how significant this game is.
