RetroSeasons recaps past sports seasons through stories, photos, videos, and stats from every team, league, and stadium in history. Coverage includes the NBA, NFL, MLB and NHL, as well as vintage media from defunct teams and leagues.
Founded in 1901 as one of the American League's eight charter franchises, the Red Sox' home ballpark has been Fenway Park since 1912. The "Red Sox" name was chosen by the team owner, John I. Taylor, circa 1908, following the lead of previous teams that had been known as the "Boston Red Stockings", including the forerunner of the Atlanta Braves. The team have won nine World Series championships, tied for the third-most of any MLB team, and they have played in 13. Their most recent World Series appearance and win was in 2018. In addition, they won the 1904 American League pennant, but were not able to defend their 1903 World Series championship when the New York Giants refused to participate in the 1904 World Series.
The Red Sox were a dominant team in the new league, defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates in the first World Series in 1903 and winning four more championships by 1918. However, they then went into one of the longest championship droughts in baseball history, dubbed the "Curse of the Bambino" after its alleged inception due to the Red Sox' sale of Babe Ruth to the rival New York Yankees two years after their world championship in 1918, an 86-year wait before the team's sixth World Championship in 2004. The team's history during that period was punctuated with some of the most memorable moments in World Series history, including Enos Slaughter's "mad dash" in 1946, the "Impossible Dream" of 1967, Carlton Fisk's home run in 1975, and Bill Buckner's error in 1986. Following their victory in the 2018 World Series, they became the first team to win four World Series trophies in the 21st century, with championships in 2004, 2007, 2013 and 2018. The team's history has also been marked by the team's intense rivalry with the New York Yankees, arguably the fiercest and most historic in North American professional sports.
The Boston Red Sox are owned by Fenway Sports Group, which also owns Liverpool F.C. of the Premier League in England. They are consistently one of the top MLB teams in average road attendance, while the small capacity of Fenway Park prevents them from leading in overall attendance. From May 15, 2003 to April 10, 2013, the Red Sox sold out every home game—a total of 820 games (794 regular season) for a major professional sports record. Both Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline" and The Standells's "Dirty Water" have become anthems for the Red Sox.
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Chicago White Sox vs Boston Red Sox - Radio Broadcast
On a crisp Saturday, September 2, 1967, the Chicago White Sox faced off against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. the White Sox were led by pitcher Joe Horlen, who was having a stellar season with a 14-6 record at the time. the Red Sox countered with their own star, Jim Lonborg, who was enjoying an 18-6 season. the 1967 season was a pivotal one for both teams, with the White Sox looking to improve their standing in the American League and the Red Sox in the midst of the "Impossible Dream" season, where they were making a strong push towards the World Series after finishing ninth the previous year. the league was buzzing with anticipation, as the Red Sox's Carl Yastrzemski was on track for a Triple Crown season, a feat not achieved since 1947.
the game started with a bang for the White Sox, who scored three runs in the first inning, led by Rocky Colavito's double that drove in two runs. the Red Sox defense, usually reliable, faltered in the first inning, leading to an early deficit. the Red Sox managed to get on the board in the fourth inning with a run driven in by Ken Harrelson, but the White Sox's pitching held them in check for the rest of the game. Horlen, in particular, was masterful, scattering six hits over nine innings while striking out four. the White Sox added an insurance run in the sixth inning, increasing their lead to 4-1.
As the game progressed, the White Sox maintained their lead, thanks to a strong performance from their bullpen. Boston's Lonborg was replaced by reliever Dan Osinski after seven innings, having given up four runs on nine hits. the White Sox's defense also stepped up, turning a key double play in the first inning to halt a potential Red Sox rally. the game ended with the White Sox victorious, 4-1, marking a significant win for the team in the late stages of the season.
In the broader context of the 1967 season, this game was a key moment. Despite the loss, the Red Sox would go on to win the American League pennant in a dramatic finish, famously known as the "Impossible Dream" season. They would eventually lose to the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series. Yastrzemski would indeed secure the Triple Crown, leading the league in batting average, home runs, and runs batted in, a bright spot in a season filled with highs and lows. Meanwhile, the White Sox would finish fourth in the American League, a respectable finish but short of their championship aspirations.
Take a look back at the famous Red Sox comeback from the 2013 ALCS, featuring...
2013 ALCS - Game 2 (Tigers vs. Red Sox) / Take a look back at the famous Red Sox comeback from the 2013 ALCS, featuring a historic performance by David Ortiz.
2003 ALCS | You dream about it as a kid. Standing in the backyard, bat in hand. You take the
Sports Rivals: 2003 ALCS | Boone vs Walker / 2003 ALCS | You dream about it as a kid. Standing in the backyard, bat in hand. You take the swing that launches a ball out of the yard for a game winner. Not just any game winner, but a swing in a major league game in the playoffs of October against THE rival, in the deciding game, in extra innings. Aaron Boone, now manager of the Yankees, lived that dream in the 2003 American League Championship Series while playing for the Bronx Bombers.Todd Walker hits a solo home run against the New York Yankees in the fourth inning of Game 4 of the American League Championship Series in Boston, October 13, 2003. REUTERS/Mike Segar JR/GACAs he headed to second base in his home run celebration, he passed a longtime friend, Todd Walker, who was playing for the opposing Red Sox. Walker had a tremendous series against the Yankees, hitting .370 and leading the Sox in runs scored. Now that series was over and the Yankees were moving on to the World Series.The 2003 ALCSThis 2003 series was heated. There was Roger Clemens and Pedro Martinez. There was a lengthy bench-clearing brawl. There were managerial decision questions that will be argued about forever.Here is the rivalry-the Red Sox and the Yankees-the 2003 ALCS. Here are two players in that series: Aaron Boone and Todd Walker. These are their stories from one of the most anticipated playoff series in baseball history. A series that lived up to all the hype.
On July 4, 1983, Dave Righetti of the New York Yankees pitched a no-hitter against...
Boston Red Sox v New York Yankees - Dave Righetti No Hitter - Radio Broadcast / On July 4, 1983, Dave Righetti of the New York Yankees pitched a no-hitter against the Boston Red Sox, marking a highlight in his career. In a game that underscored his tremendous skill and focus, Righetti became the first Yankee to achieve a no-hitter since Don Larsen's perfect game in the 1956 World Series. Righetti’s strong performance, supported by his team's defense, resulted in a thrilling 4-0 victory. This memorable game is celebrated in baseball history as one of the finest individual pitching performances on America's Independence Day.
Ah, the joy of it all, listening to this conversation between two of MLB’s most renowned HOF pitchers, former rivals
Sports Rivals:HOF Pitchers | Palmer vs Eckersley / Ah, the joy of it all, listening to this conversation between two of MLB’s most renowned HOF pitchers, former rivals and good friends: Jim Palmer and Dennis Eckersley. These two-faced one another in opposing uniforms between 1975 and 1984. Both would enter Baseball’s Hall of Fame and the competitiveness that got them there can be […] The post HOF Pitchers | Palmer vs Eckersley
Lou Piniella and Fred Lynn where they talk the legendary 1978 playoff game that the Yankees won. Then they when
Sports Rivals: Red Sox v. Yankees - From 1978 to 2021 / Lou Piniella and Fred Lynn where they talk the legendary 1978 playoff game that the Yankees won. Then they when on to win the World Series. The stakes of this game tonight couldn't be higher.
Leo Cloutier meets with old friend Ted Williams at Winter Haven Florida during Spring Training...
Ted Williams interviewed by Leo Cloutier - 1978 / Leo Cloutier meets with old friend Ted Williams at Winter Haven Florida during Spring Training with the Boston Red Sox. Ted was working as a batting coach.
Famed Sportswriter Leo Cloutier interviews the Red Sox Outfielder Bernie Carbo in this 1975 interview...
Bernie Carbo of Boston red Sox interviewed by Leo Cloutier / Famed Sportswriter Leo Cloutier interviews the Red Sox Outfielder Bernie Carbo in this 1975 interview made at Fenway Park in Boston.
Carlton Fisk, Catcher for the Red Sox, originates from Raymond New Hampshire and is...
Carlton Fisk - Catcher Boston Red Sox interviewed by Leo Cloutier / Carlton Fisk, Catcher for the Red Sox, originates from Raymond New Hampshire and is heard being interviewed by Leo Cloutier from this classic Radio Broadcast from 1975.
Leo Cloutier interviews Dick O'connell in this classic radio broadcast from 1970.
Richard Henry O'Connell (September...
Dick O'Connell VP of Boston Red Sox interviewed by Leo Cloutier - 1970 / Leo Cloutier interviews Dick O'connell in this classic radio broadcast from 1970.
Richard Henry O'Connell (September 19, 1914 – August 18, 2002) was an American front office executive in Major League Baseball. He was executive vice president of the Boston Red Sox from 1961 through 1977 and served as general manager of the team from September 16, 1965, through October 24, 1977, a period during which he played a pivotal role in restoring the Red Sox to contending status, won two American League pennants, and helped make the team a flagship MLB franchise.
Leo Cloutier interviews Dom DiMaggio in Winter Haven during spring training in 1970 ...
Dom DiMaggio of Boston Red Sox- interviewed by Leo Cloutier in 1970 / Leo Cloutier interviews Dom DiMaggio in Winter Haven during spring training in 1970
Leo Cloutier meets with old friend George Scott in this radio interview from 1970- made...
George Scott interviewed by Leo Cloutier in 1970 / Leo Cloutier meets with old friend George Scott in this radio interview from 1970- made in Winter Haven Florida during spring training with the Boston Red Sox.
In 1969, amidst a transformative era for Major League Baseball, a radio interview featuring Ted...
Ted Williams Radio Interview / In 1969, amidst a transformative era for Major League Baseball, a radio interview featuring Ted Williams, one of the sport's most revered figures, took place. By this time, Williams had already cemented his legacy as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, having retired as a player in 1960. His post-retirement career saw him transitioning into various roles, including that of a manager, notably taking the helm for the Washington Senators in 1969. This interview offers insights into Williams' perspectives on baseball, his managerial philosophy, and his reflections on a storied playing career that spanned over two decades. The interviewer, navigating the conversation, draws out Williams' deep knowledge of the game, his approach to leadership, and his thoughts on the current state of baseball.
This exchange serves not only as a historical record but as an intimate exploration of the mind of a baseball legend at a pivotal moment in his post-playing career. The year 1969 marked Williams' entry into managing, a role that would challenge him to impart his wisdom to a new generation of players. The interview illuminates the challenges and rewards of this transition, providing a rare glimpse into Williams' aspirations and challenges as he embarked on this new chapter. It's a compelling listen for anyone interested in the evolution of baseball legends and the insights they carry beyond their playing days.
Ted Williams' last at-bat took place at Fenway Park in Boston on September 28, 1960,...
Ted Williams final at bat at Fenway Park / Ted Williams' last at-bat took place at Fenway Park in Boston on September 28, 1960, during the final game of his career. He hit a home run in his last plate appearance, and he refused to tip his cap to the cheering crowd as he left the field, an act of defiance that became a defining moment in his career.
On September 7, 1959, the Boston Red Sox faced off against the New York Yankees...
New York Yankees vs Boston Red Sox - Radio Broadcast / On September 7, 1959, the Boston Red Sox faced off against the New York Yankees in a daytime game at Fenway Park, a classic rivalry in the world of baseball. On the mound for the Yankees was Duke Maas, who had a respectable season record of 12-7, while the Red Sox countered with Jerry Casale, who was holding a 10-8 record. At this point in the season, the Yankees were in a tough fight for the American League pennant, while the Red Sox were playing the role of potential spoilers. The 1959 season was marked by the dominance of the Chicago White Sox in the American League, and the Yankees were trying to keep pace. Meanwhile, the Red Sox were trying to finish the season on a high note, despite being out of the playoff picture.
The game started off with a bang, as the Red Sox exploded for six runs in the second inning, including back-to-back home runs from Don Buddin and Jerry Casale. This early offensive surge set the tone for the rest of the game. The Yankees tried to respond in the third inning with a solo home run from Bob Cerv and a two-run shot from Mickey Mantle, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Red Sox's early lead. The Red Sox's offense was relentless throughout the game, with key hits from Pumpsie Green, Jackie Jensen, and Vic Wertz. On the pitching side, Casale managed to hold the Yankees to four runs over 6.1 innings, while reliever Mike Fornieles came in to close the game without allowing any more runs.
In the end, the Red Sox triumphed over the Yankees with a final score of 12-4. The Yankees' loss was a significant blow to their pennant race, as the Chicago White Sox would go on to win the American League and face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series. Despite their lack of postseason play, the Red Sox's victory in this game was a highlight of their season, showcasing their ability to compete with the top teams in the league. In the larger context of the 1959 season, this game was emblematic of the changing balance of power in the American League, with the White Sox's rise and the Yankees' struggle to maintain their dominance.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with All Star Pitcher Tex Hughson / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Ted Williams, aka The Splendid Splinter, The Greatest hitter of the Boston Red Sox, is...
Ted Williams Interviewed by Leo Cloutier in 1952 / Ted Williams, aka The Splendid Splinter, The Greatest hitter of the Boston Red Sox, is interviewed by Leo Cloutier in early 1952. Ted talks about Fly Fishing and Leo invites him to hunt deer in New Hampshire.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Outfielder Dom Dallessandro / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Pitcher Denny Galehouse / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Pitcher Monte Weaver / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Player Bob Weiland / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Hall of Fame Manager Joe McCarthy / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Hall of Fame Pitcher Red Ruffing / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Hall of Fame Pitcher Lefty Grove / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Pitcher Milt Gaston / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Hall of Fame Pitcher Waite Hoyt / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Pitcher Ernie Shore / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Player Smoky Joe Wood / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Touring around Boston by streetcar, trolley, 1903. Edison, North Station, South Station, Atlantic Ave. El....
Boston by streetcar in 1903 / Touring around Boston by streetcar, trolley, 1903. Edison, North Station, South Station, Atlantic Ave. El. Copley Sq. Huntington Ave.