The Texas Rangers kicked off their season opener against the Chicago Cubs with a special celebration as they unfurled their World Series championship banner for the first time in franchise history. The banner was dropped from Globe Life Field’s roof support high above right field. 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 expressed his gratitude for the tremendous support from fans and emphasized the importance of savoring the moment. Players were encouraged to take it all in and enjoy the celebration as they received their championship rings before the second game of the series on Saturday night. This championship marked the Rangers’ first in the 52 seasons spent in Texas and the 63rd overall for the franchise that originated in 1961 as the Washington Senators.
Despite losing in their two previous World Series appearances, the Rangers finally clinched the title in 2021 after falling short in both 2010 and 2011. Pitcher Max Scherzer, who was part of the 2019 Washington Nationals championship team, emphasized the importance of celebrating with fans after the 2020 celebrations were limited by COVID-19 restrictions. Watching the ceremony from the opposing dugout, Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed a sense of jealousy towards the Rangers’ accomplishment.