Fansided

Fenway Park grounds director Dave Mellor’s new service dog is the feelgood story of the season

By Gabrielle Starr |
Aug 30, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox head grounds keeper Dave Mellor with his dog Drago look over the field before the start of the game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 30, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox head grounds keeper Dave Mellor with his dog Drago look over the field before the start of the game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Red Sox grounds director Dave Mellor has a new service dog at Fenway Park

Not too many heartwarming stories have come out of the 2022 Boston Red Sox season, so we have to cling to good news when we can get it.

If you’ve been to Fenway Park in the last eight years, you’ve probably seen senior grounds director Dave Mellor and his noble service dog, Drago. Drago could often be seen enjoying the sunny patches of grass in Fenway’s outfield, enjoying baseballs given to him by the players, and helping Mellor keep the ballpark beautiful. When Drago fathered a litter in 2018, his siblings were adopted by former Red Sox players Rick Porcello and Ian Kinsler.

While Red Sox Nation is familiar with the incredible story of ‘Dave and Drago,’ it’s also chronicled in Mellor’s book. They were even featured on ESPN.

Drago tragically passed away earlier this season after having a stroke at the ballpark. Mellor’s tribute to his companion and “best friend” was absolutely heartbreaking.

He was such a huge part of the organization that the Red Sox honored him before a game.

Drago has been missed at Fenway this summer, but now, his son, Keeper, will carry on his legacy. On Tuesday, Mellor announced that Keeper would make his ballpark debut when the Sox kicked off their homestand that night.

So if you come to Fenway Park this season, keep an eye out for the majestic Keeper and his wonderful owner.

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