Before their season opener against the Chicago Cubs, the Texas Rangers proudly unveiled their first-ever World Series championship banner at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The banner, dropped from the roof support high above right field, marked a historic moment for the franchise. The Commissioner's Trophy, symbolizing their victory, was presented at home plate by the manager and the pitcher who recorded the final out in the clinching Game 5 against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Manager Bruce Bochy expressed gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support, emphasizing the significance of the achievement. The championship rings are set to be awarded before the second game of the series on Saturday night, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Bochy, with previous World Series wins under his belt, advised the players to cherish the moment and fully embrace the experience of being champions. The Rangers' triumph came in their 52nd season in Texas and 63rd overall for the franchise that originated in 1961 as the Washington Senators.
Despite previous World Series disappointments in 2010 and 2011, where they fell short against the Giants and the Cardinals, respectively, the Rangers finally clinched the title in a memorable victory. Pitcher Max Scherzer, a key member of the championship-winning Washington Nationals in 2019, expressed his eagerness to celebrate with the fans after missing out on a traditional ceremony due to pandemic restrictions in 2020.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell, reflecting on his own World Series triumph with the Marlins in 1997, admitted to feeling envious while witnessing the Rangers' celebratory moment from the opposing dugout. The atmosphere was filled with a mix of joy, nostalgia, and admiration for the Rangers' long-awaited achievement.
As the Rangers basked in the glory of their historic win, the fans and players alike reveled in the culmination of a remarkable journey that culminated in the unfurling of the championship banner and the imminent presentation of the coveted rings.
