Jason Bay
Thursday, at the trade deadline, I could feel a whirlwind of emotions. Relief that there was resolution. Shock that there had really been a trade (my heart knew it had to happen, but my head thought the deal would never go through). Apprehension at a team without Manny. And anticipation to see what we had in Jason Bay.
I had a ticket for Friday night, and while I was a bit disappointed I hadn’t had one for what turned out to be Manny’s last game, I was very happy to have one for Jay Bay’s first!
I was delighted to see that there were already T-shirts for sale–and already people wearing them! Not to mention one young man in a Sox hat and a Bay Pirates jersey.
It had to be overwhelming for him, but he already seemed to take it in stride.
And I was very moved to be part of the first ovations for him. I’d been a little anxious about the fan response, but it was a magnificent showing of the best that Boston has to offer. And he himself looked both moved and a touch uncomfortable, in a very endearing way, to be receiving accolades before he’d even had a chance to show what he could do.
Accidentally shot with the shutter speed too slow, but I kinda liked the effect!
Oof! Well, it’s one way to get on base…
Of course, he went to score the first run–the one that looked like it might be enough, especially if we had good defense…
…like the kind he showed on a magnificent sliding catch, for which he’s getting a pat from Lowrie here. And it was at that moment that I realized I was smitten, in a baseball sense.
Perhaps it would have been the perfect capper if the ball he hit high off the Monster had cleared it, but as a longtime fan of Jed Lowrie, I guess I’m not sorry that they could both celebrate!
I couldn’t be at the park for Saturday’s heroics, though I did see Sean Casey that day and he was effusive in his praise of Jay Bay. But I was back at the park Sunday, in my brand new Bay 44 shirt!
Youk pointing something out. I’d like to think it’s the hawk. “And if you see that… just make sure it’s not carrying its lunch. Sometimes it likes to… share.”
Pregame warming up.
I took a shot like this Friday but he looks much better here; it could be a better seat and better light, but I’d like to think it’s my growing affection!
At the risk of undermining my baseball credibility, I have to note that Jay Bay’s got a very nice, er, stance.
Too late, Rob Bowen!
We’re no strangers to embracing new players midyear in Boston, of course; 2004 is enduring testimony to that! But I’m a little surprised myself by how happy I am to have Jay Bay in the fold. No, I don’t think we’re going to win out the rest of the way, of course. But it’s funny how a solid, capable, down-to-earth guy has made my Sox-loving heart soar again.
sittingstill 
Dang, these pictures are fantastic, Kelly. When are the Sox going to hire you?