Yesterday was a great day in Boston as the Red Sox retired the jersey of one Johnny Pesky. You don't know who Johnny Pesky is? Well let me tell you the story of Mr. Pesky or as he is called her in Oregon, "Mr. Red Sox."
A couple weeks ago I didn't know who Mr. Pesky was either until I visited the Silverton History museum and found out all about Mr. Pesky and now seeing his number retired is just awesome. You see, in 1938 in Silverton, Oregon, they had a AAA ball club called the Silverton Red Sox. That is where Mr. Pesky got his start. He played baseball here, went off to war, came back, and then got drafted to the big leagues where he has been with the Boston Red Sox ever since!
Mr. Pesky may not be famous outside of Boston, but outside of Portland, in the little town of Silverton, they are proud to have some history with Mr. Red Sox. They even have a mural of the Red Sox in the middle of town and one of the uniforms in the museum.
So, if you are looking to know more about Mr. Pesky, I suggest you come to Oregon and stop off in Silverton, Oregon, and ask about him. I promise they will be glad to tell you about their local baseball star that has a uniform number retired in Boston. Also don't forget to ask about the Pesky Pole! But, in case you can't make it to Silverton, I can tell you that the right field foul pole is named after him.
For more information on Johnny "Mr. Red Sox" Pesky, I suggest you pick up the book about him, "Mr. Red Sox: The Johnny Pesky Story", by Bill Nowlin. I know I have it on order and can't wait to get it!

Todd Clark - broker
Kastings & Associates
Phone: (503)524-9494
Fax: (503)622-8739

Todd Clark (broker w/ Ken's Home Team)
Keller Williams Realty
Todd@IFoundYourNewHome.com
Phone: (503)524-9494
Fax: (503)746-9573



I am a licensed Realtor who specializes in Washington County, Oregon and also work in both Clackamas and Multnomah Counties including the cities of Aloha, Beaverton, Canby, Clackamas, Gladstone, Gresham, Happy Valley, Hillsboro, Milwaukie, Oregon City, Sherwood and Tigard. All information contained in these posts are copyrighted and cannot be used without prior written approval authorization from the author me Todd Clark. If you are looking for an outstanding agent please give me a call I would love to help you with all your real estate needs.
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7 Comments on The retiring of a Red Sox jersey – Now for the rest of the story
Todd - If I am ever fortunate enough to visit your beautiful state of Oregon I will definitely stop off in Silverton. Johnny Pesky is an incredible human being and a mighty fair baseball player. I proudly wore his number myself when I played baseball. My home state of Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have adopted Johnny into our hearts. If your state can produce anymore like him, we will gladly adopt them as well!
Hi Todd, great post. It was really touching to see Johnny tear up when he saw his number unveiled next to some of the other Sox greats like Teddy Ballgame yesterday. What a class act he has always been.
Johnny Pesky, although not Hall of Fame caliber, was known for his excellent fielding and great sportsmanship. The latter is a rare commodity among today's high priced athletes.
Here is his Topps 1952 baseball card....
Todd, I had no idea about the Oregon - Boston connection with Johnny. He has been a beloved part of the Boston Red Sox for all my lifetime and our very own baseball ambassador. GO RED SOX!
Pass me a hot dog and get another beer if you are at the concession stand okay? Go Red Sox in tonight's game with the Angels!
John - I don't know if we have any more like Mr. Pesky! But, if we do, we will certainly send him your way, since we aren't lucky enough to have our own team yet. I've gotten some amazing e-mails about Mr. Pesky in the last couple days and I have to say not one thing bad has been said about him.
John - I hope we honor him in Portland as he is one of our native sons, but I'm guessing it won't happen soon. I think I'm going to write the Mayor today and see what we can do for Mr. Pesky.
Craig - Even if he wasn't the caliber for his playing, he should be in for his contribution to baseball! The man is a true class act and you are right compared to today's players he outshines most of them. Thanks for the card, that is really cool!
Judy - He has been a part of the Red Sox for most everyone's lifetime! Since 1938!
Andrew - I know my son will be watching as he is a huge Sox fan as you can read in some of my other posts.
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