Sox to salute Remy with season-long patches

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- The Red Sox will honor the late Jerry Remy by wearing commemorative patches bearing his name and number on their uniforms all season.

Remy, who received iconic status in Red Sox Nation during his 33 years in the broadcast booth, will be honored in pregame ceremonies prior to the April 20 home game against the Blue Jays.

This will be the first time since 2012, when they celebrated the 100th anniversary of Fenway Park, that the Sox will wear commemorative patches for an entire season.

“I think it means a lot to the organization, to the players, to everybody that is part of us,” said manager Alex Cora. “I think the most important thing is it means a lot to the city and to the Red Sox fans. Obviously we wish he was with us, instead of putting a patch on, but that’s one of the things that’s going to mean a lot. Obviously this organization feels the world about Remy and his family and what they mean to us. It’s just a great tribute not only to him but his family too.”

The Sox wore patches during the last three months of the ’02 season to honor Ted Williams after he passed away that July.

There was an outpouring of love and support from the Red Sox and their fans when Remy passed away last October 30 at the age of 68 after a battle with lung cancer.

On April 6 at 8 p.m. ET, NESN will premier an hour-long special titled, “Remembering Jerry.”

The television tribute will feature stories and memories of Remy’s broadcast and playing career from his teammates, as well as current and former NESN broadcasters. Fans can also share their favorite memories of the long-time NESN analyst on a special webpage dedicated to Remy by visiting NESN.com/RememberingJerry.

A native of Somerset, Mass., Remy achieved the thrill of playing for his hometown Red Sox from 1978 until the end of his career in ’84.

Respected for his grit on the ballfield, Remy’s popularity was increased by his sharp wit as a broadcaster. He also broke down the nuances of the game in a way that was easy to digest.

Cora and several players have worn “Jerry Remy Fight Club” t-shirts this spring. The shirts came out last season following Remy’s cancer diagnosis.

"He was awesome. He was great,” said Rich Hill. "I just remember some of the conversations we had on the flights and before the game when you get him 1-on-1 and just how much he loved the game and how much passion he had for the game. It’s the right thing [to do] and it will absolutely be an honor to wear it for the entire season.”

Remy made his final appearance at Fenway Park at last year’s American League Wild Card Game against the Yankees when he threw out the first pitch to former teammate, Hall of Famer and current NESN analyst Dennis Eckersley.