Unable to attend the first home game of the season was indeed a bummer, but some things are more important, if you can believe that.

Before leaving work I was able to catch the ceremony. I love seeing Johnny Pesky, Bobby Doerr and the rest of the 1946 representatives. It's always special to me. I love these guys and after reading "Teammates," "Summer of '49" and numerous other biographies, I've grown especially fond of the era.

I was also able to see Beckett's first inning. With his adrenaline pumping and a tight strike zone, he struggled. I was a little worried, I admit.

After the first I was in my car, listening on the radio. My daughter, wearing her pink Boston cap, sat in the back chanting "Let's go Red Sox" from Portland to Wells. It was difficult to hear the radio, but there's nothing like hearing a 22-month-old become a fan.

She could tell Daddy was excited.

And why not? Beckett settled down. The infield defense was stellar. And the Red Sox thrived in Fenway.

I tried to imagine some of the plays in my head and gathered from the announcers excitement they were special indeed. My excitement grew.

This was the first time for some of the players to be introduced to the home crowd. And it was those newcomers who were making the difference.

In fact, except for Ortiz' solo-shot to right, it was Youkilis, Lowell and Stern driving in all the runs. It was Alex Gonzalez heads-up double play (I'll even give Loretta an assist) and it was Youkilis' over-the-shoulder basket catch.

I love this team!

Which brings me to another team. After reading Johnny Damon's comments in the Daily News about his home debut in front of Yankee fans, I now must trade him from my fantasy team. I had thought of Damon as an exception. Surely, I could draft this Yankee. I was wrong. It is like he totally discounted all that Boston brought him, including his first World Series ring. Man, it really pains me. So long, Johnny.

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