5 reasons Red Sox fans can still smile as 2023 season closes

The final leg of the regular season is upon us, and while the Boston Red Sox ultimately missed the playoffs, the 2023 season still gave plenty of reasons for Red Sox fans to look back on this season and smile.

Boston Red Sox fans aren't accustomed to having a "just be relevant" mentality when it comes to the expectations for this team. Having won titles in '04, '07, '13, and '18, the Red Sox, as well as their fans, carry lofty expectations for this team that far surpass just finishing above .500 or merely squeaking their way into a Wild Card spot. Nonetheless, despite the fact that Red Sox fans will not be tuning in to watch their favorite team in October, there are still plenty of memorable moments and positive takeaways from the 2023 season.

Reason Red Sox fans can smile No. 1) Alex Verdugo "Please be F-ing fair"

One of the most memorable moments from the 2023 season came at the hands - and the mouth - of Alex Verdugo after he hit an extra inning walk-off home run just inside Pesky's Pole on April 18 against the Minnesota Twins. The excitement and adrenaline spilled over during Verdugo's postgame interview. When asked by NESN's Jahmai Webster on what went through his mind as the ball was headed down the line, on live TV, Verdugo grinned and responded with, "please be f-ing fair," and instantly realized his slip up. Webster played it off, and all of Red Sox Nation who were tuned into their TVs smirked right along with Verdugo.