This article is an excerpt from Ian Browne’s Red Sox Beat newsletter. To read the complete newsletter, click here. Also, subscribe to receive it regularly in your inbox.
BOSTON – Two decades ago, I had the honor of documenting one of the most remarkable stories in baseball history. The Red Sox not only became the first MLB team to overcome a 3-0 deficit in a postseason series, but they also triumphed over their long-time rivals, the Yankees.
Following their incredible comeback against the Yankees in the ALCS, the 2004 Red Sox proceeded to sweep the 105-win Cardinals in the World Series, clinching Boston’s first championship in 86 years.
Featuring a captivating, three-part docuseries aptly titled “Four Days in October,” it explores the unforgettable journey of that historic season.
With the release of “The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox” on Netflix this Wednesday, a wave of nostalgia has washed over me. In celebration of its 20-year anniversary, I would like to share some reflections from my perspective in the press box.
• With the Red Sox trailing the Yankees 3-0 in a best-of-seven series, I believed their chances were gone. Or at least, I thought so. No team in MLB history has ever rallied from such a deficit, so what made this situation different? As Mariano Rivera entered to secure the final six outs for what appeared to be a guaranteed pennant for the Yankees, my mom, who is not typically awake at night, called to ask whether she should stay up for the remainder of the game. I advised her to get some rest.
Although the Red Sox were only behind by a score of 4-3, it felt far worse. They were up against not only the weight of history but also Rivera, who would soon be a unanimous Hall of Famer. He made quick work of the eighth inning. Then came the pivotal ninth inning. Kevin Millar walked; Dave Roberts took his place as a pinch runner and successfully stole second base; Bill Mueller brought him home. David Ortiz concluded the game with a two-run homer in the 12th inning, sending the fans home ecstatic. Perhaps I should have encouraged my mom to stay awake after all.
• Although Game 5 is not often recalled as vividly as the other games, the impact it had was profound, setting the stage for a historic turnaround.
Game 4 for various reasons. However, it stands out as the highlight of the series, extending for 14 innings over five hours and 49 minutes. Trot Nixon’s defensive plays in right field should not be overlooked. In the third inning, he made a diving catch on the warning track to rob Alex Rodriguez of extra bases. Just three innings later, Nixon leaped again to snag a sinking liner off the bat of Hideki Matsui. Had he not made that second catch, the Red Sox would have likely found themselves down by 6-2; instead, they remained close, trailing by just two runs.
• Tim Wakefield earned his moment in this series. The knuckleball pitcher graciously sacrificed his scheduled start for Game 4, stepping in to clean up during the 19-8 blowout loss in Game 3. The ultimate team player, Wakefield finally had his chance to shine in Game 5, where he pitched the 12th through 14th innings to secure the win, giving up just one hit. The most unforgettable moment came in the tense 13th inning, as Jason Varitek—who rarely caught Wakefield—allowed three passed balls. A fourth would have handed the Yankees the lead. Instead, Varitek managed to catch strike three against Ruben Sierra, appearing to hold on for dear life, while Wakefield emphatically pumped his fist on his way back to the dugout.
• This series never even gets to
In Game 7, Keith Foulke was absent. Over time, his contributions have oddly gone unappreciated. Though the moment of him securing the final out in the World Series is unforgettable, it was his remarkable performance in the ALCS that truly stood out. Across Games 4-6, without any breaks in between, Foulke delivered 100 pitches—50 in Game 4, 22 in Game 5, and 28 in Game 6. The number of runs allowed? None.
• Following Curt Schilling’s courageous effort in Game 6, where he bled through his right sock, Game 7 was poised for excitement. One of the most overlooked narratives was Derek Lowe taking the mound on just two days’ rest to support a fatigued pitching rotation. He required only 69 pitches to limit the Yankees to a single run and one hit over six innings. Remarkably, he secured wins in all three of Boston’s postseason clinching games.
• During my third year in the press corps at the age of 32, I was among the youngest members covering the Boston team. I was struck by the sight of seasoned reporters, who had long documented the team’s journey, simply rising from their chairs in the press box after the final out. They took a few moments to absorb the celebrations unfolding on the field, as if they needed time to fully comprehend the event. I can only imagine many were reflecting on relatives who had never witnessed the Red Sox’s World Series victory. At that moment, I wondered if I would ever report on a story of greater significance. I’m still pondering that question.
Reflecting on the 20th Anniversary of the 2004 Red Sox: The Greatest Comeback in Baseball History
The Historic Journey of the 2004 Red Sox
The 2004 Boston Red Sox are remembered not just for their play on the field but for their dramatic and unprecedented comeback during the American League Championship Series (ALCS). This article takes a deep dive into the events leading up to the historic victory, the key players involved, and the cultural impact of this unforgettable moment in sports history.
Key Moments in the 2004 ALCS
The 2004 ALCS was a series that began with the Red Sox facing the New York Yankees, a fierce rivalry that had captivated baseball fans for decades. The Red Sox fell into a daunting situation, trailing the series 3-0, a feat that had never been overcome in Major League Baseball history.
Game 4: The Turning Point
– **Date:** October 17, 2004
– **Location:** Yankee Stadium, New York
– **Final Score:** Red Sox 6, Yankees 4
Game 4 marked the beginning of Boston’s historic comeback. The Red Sox, propelled by a late-game rally, managed to secure a win despite being down in the ninth inning. This victory ignited hope for the team and its fans, setting the stage for a dramatic resurgence.
Game 5: The Miracle at Fenway
– **Date:** October 18, 2004
– **Location:** Fenway Park, Boston
– **Final Score:** Red Sox 5, Yankees 4
In a game that would go down in Red Sox lore, the team came back from a 4-2 deficit to win in the bottom of the ninth. A series of clutch hits, including a game-winning single by David Ortiz, cemented his legacy as a playoff hero.
Games 6 and 7: Completing the Impossible
The Red Sox continued their momentum into Games 6 and 7. They swept the Yankees and secured their place in World Series history:
– **Game 6 Final Score:** Red Sox 4, Yankees 2
– **Game 7 Final Score:** Red Sox 10, Yankees 3
This two-game victory not only showcased the team’s resilience but also marked the first time a team had come back from a 3-0 series deficit in MLB history.
Key Players Who Made History
The success of the 2004 Red Sox hinged on the outstanding performances of several key players:
| Player | Position | Key Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| David Ortiz | DH | Game-winning hits, clutch performances |
| Kevin Millar | 1B | Played crucial roles in late-game rallies |
| Johnny Damon | LF | Grand slam and two-run double in Game 7 |
| Pedro Martinez | SP | Key pitching performances throughout the series |
The Cultural Impact of the 2004 Red Sox
The 2004 Red Sox did not just change the fate of a baseball team; they transformed the narrative around the team and the city of Boston. Here are some key aspects of their cultural impact:
– **Breaking the Curse:** The Red Sox ended an 86-year championship drought that fans had come to call “the Curse of the Bambino.” This monumental victory shifted the team’s image from one of perennial losers to champions.
– **Uniting the Fan Base:** The team’s incredible run fostered a sense of unity among fans, creating a community of support that transcended generations. The phrase “Red Sox Nation” became synonymous with passionate fandom.
– **Baseball as a Cultural Phenomenon:** The 2004 Red Sox revitalized interest in baseball both locally and nationally. Their story was not just about sports; it was about resilience, determination, and hope.
Benefits of Reflecting on Historic Sports Moments
Reflecting on historic moments like the 2004 Red Sox comeback provides numerous benefits, not only for sports enthusiasts but also for individuals seeking inspiration in their own lives:
– **Inspiration for Overcoming Adversity:** The Red Sox’s journey teaches us that resilience can lead to success, no matter how insurmountable the odds may seem.
- **Understanding Team Dynamics:** Analyzing how players collaborated and supported each other can offer insights into teamwork and leadership applicable in various contexts, including business and personal development.
- **Cultural Identity:** Sports moments often shape the identity of cities and communities. Reflecting on these events can foster pride and a sense of belonging.
First-Hand Experiences: Fan Recollections
Many fans vividly remember where they were during the 2004 Red Sox postseason. Here are a few personal recollections that illustrate the emotional journey:
– **“I was in my living room, surrounded by friends. When David Ortiz hit that game-winning home run, we erupted in cheers. It felt like a shared victory for us all.”** – Jane D., Boston Resident.
– **“Watching Game 7 at Fenway was surreal. When the final out was made, we all hugged and cried. It was a moment that brought the city together in joy.”** – Mike R., Long-time Red Sox Fan.
– **“I had almost given up hope when they were down 3-0. Each game felt like a roller coaster, but it was worth every moment of anxiety.”** – Sarah T., Sports Journalist.
How the 2004 Red Sox Changed Baseball Forever
The 2004 Red Sox not only achieved a historic comeback but also left a lasting legacy on the game of baseball. The significance of their victory can be summarized in the following points:
– **Changing Playoff Strategies:** Teams began to adopt strategies that prioritized mental toughness and resilience, learning from the Red Sox’s ability to thrive under pressure.
– **Increased Fan Engagement:** The 2004 season sparked an increase in fan engagement across all teams. Fans became more involved in their teams, leading to larger attendance numbers and more passionate support.
– **Rivalry Dynamics:** The Red Sox-Yankees rivalry intensified as both teams continued to battle for supremacy in the league, with the 2004 series serving as a pivotal chapter in their ongoing story.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Courage and Determination
As we reflect on the 20th anniversary of the 2004 Red Sox, we are reminded of the power of perseverance, teamwork, and belief in the face of adversity. Their journey serves as a timeless inspiration for all, illustrating that sometimes, the impossible can become reality. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or a casual observer, the legacy of the 2004 Red Sox will continue to resonate for generations to come.
