The banner was dropped from the roof of Globe Life Field, marking the Rangers’ first championship in their 52nd season in Texas and 63rd overall for the franchise that began play in 1961 as the second iteration of the Washington Senators. Shortly before, the Commissioner’s Trophy was brought to home plate by manager Bruce Bochy and pitcher Josh Sborz, who recorded the final out in the clinching Game 5 against the Arizona Diamondbacks in November.
Bochy thanked the fans for their support and urged them to savor every moment of this historic achievement, including receiving their championship rings before the series’ second game on Saturday night. Bochy previously managed three World Series winners while with the San Francisco Giants.
Rangers pitcher Max Scherzer, who was on the Nationals’ championship team in 2019 but missed out on celebrating with fans due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in 2020, expressed his excitement about finally being able to enjoy this moment with his teammates and fans. “I really want to enjoy it with the fans this time and soak in the moment,” he said.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell, who scored the run that gave the Marlins their first World Series title in 1997, shared his thoughts on watching from the opposing dugout during this historic ceremony. “You’re jealous of ’em,” he admitted. “That’s just how it is.”