Memories of Jerry Remy covering the Boston Red Sox for NESN
Red Sox Nation is heartbroken by the devastating news that the beloved Jerry Remy passed away over the weekend after a hard-fought battle with cancer.
Remy spent seven seasons in a Red Sox uniform during a productive career as a speedy second baseman but entire generations of fans who never had the chance to see him play know him best as the long-time color commentator for games broadcast on NESN.
The Massachusetts native greeted us every night with a thick Boston accent that served as a reminder that he’s one of us. He was as emotionally invested in this team as anyone, sharing in the euphotic highs of every triumph and feeling the pain of every low point. Remy openly rooted for the Red Sox but he did so without being a homer. He would praise someone for making a great play but wasn’t shy about offering insightful criticism when it was warranted. His critique was tough but fair, which earned him the respect of the viewers.
Many different personalities have cycled through the NESN booth but Remy was the linchpin that held it together for over three decades. His on-air chemistry with Don Orsillo was magical. We could listen to Remy talk to former teammate Dennis Eckersley for hours as they reminisced about their time together on the field.
Remy’s last public appearance at Fenway Park came prior to the Wild Card game against the New York Yankees when he threw out the first pitch to Eckersley. It’s a bittersweet moment now that we know that it served as his final farewell.
There are countless other fond memories we can reflect on from Remy’s broadcasting career. Here are a handful of my favorite RemDawg moments.