The Ovation

Last night's Game 1 of the World Series at Fenway saw the Dodgers players introduced to varying levels of boos, with Manny Machado deservedly getting the most.  However, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts received a standing ovation from the fans.

Boston loves Dave Roberts. #WorldSeries pic.twitter.com/jwZ0T0qtSy

— MLB (@MLB) October 24, 2018

This is why.  Game 4 of the 2004 ALCS with the Red Sox down three games to none and the Yankees leading 4-3 in the bottom of the 9th with the best relief pitcher in baseball history on the mound.  Pinch runner Dave Roberts stole second base, the most important stolen base in Red Sox history, when everyone in the stadium including the Yankees knew he would be running, and scored the tying run on a single.  Big Papi eventually won the game in extra innings, the Sox went on to win the next three against the Yankees, and then sweep the Cardinals to win their first championship since 1918.  The base Roberts stole is on display at Fenway along with an endless tape loop of the steal.