Notes: Pesky raises banner, gets ring at age 85

BOSTON -- Johnny Pesky finally took the field as a champion in one of the most touching aspects of the Red Sox's pregame World Series ring ceremony.

Pesky celebrated the Red Sox's first title in 86 years, helping raise the championship banner and receiving a ring.

After receiving his jewelry Monday, the 85-year-old Pesky was embraced by every Red Sox player.

"I never dreamed anything like this would ever happen to me," said Pesky, beloved by generations of fans and players.

Pesky has spent most of his 64-year baseball career with Boston as a player, manager, coach, broadcaster and now as special instructor. He was a member of the team's 1946 World Series team that lost to the St. Louis Cardinals, 4-3.

Seeing the World Series banner was moving for him.

"I almost had tears in my eyes when I saw that," he said. "It's a very emotional day and I'm so happy that the ballclub has had success and I hope they continue to have success."

Several Red Sox players said Pesky's participation was the most memorable part of the ceremony.

"You had a tear in your eye for this guy," Kevin Millar said.

Seeing Pesky also was one of the highlights for Yankees manager Joe Torre. The two have been friendly for years, since Torre played for the Cardinals and Pesky coached with the Pittsburgh Pirates. "The most moving part for me was seeing Johnny Pesky," Torre said.

Pesky thinks the Red Sox are capable of winning it all again this season.

"A couple more of these of these would be wonderful," he said.

Rivera charms with smiling reaction

Yankees closer Mariano Rivera received one of the loudest ovations from Red Sox fans during pregame ceremonies. Really.