Red Sox Honor 1986 Team at Fenway Home Opener

Legendary players from iconic World Series squad to attend celebration

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:57am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a baseball game, with sharp, overlapping geometric planes in the vibrant colors of the Red Sox and Padres uniforms, capturing the raw energy and excitement of the sport.The Red Sox's celebration of their legendary 1986 World Series team brings a burst of energy and nostalgia to Fenway Park as the franchise looks to build on its storied past.Boston Today

The Boston Red Sox are honoring the 40th anniversary of their 1986 team, which made it to the World Series before falling to the New York Mets in seven games, during their home opener against the San Diego Padres at Fenway Park. Nearly 25 players from that legendary team are expected to be in attendance, including Tony Armas, Marty Barrett, Wade Boggs, Oil Can Boyd, and many others.

Why it matters

The 1986 Red Sox team is remembered as one of the most iconic and heart-wrenching collapses in sports history, and this celebration will allow fans to reflect on that legendary squad and its lasting impact on the franchise and the city of Boston.

The details

Before the game, both teams will be introduced along the baselines, and the colors will be presented by members of the Vermont Army National Guard and the Massachusetts Army and Air Force National Guard from Hanscom Air Force Base. The American flag, in use since 2002, will be draped over the Green Monster during the National Anthem, performed by Boston native and Broadway actor Nik Walker. Pre-game ceremonies are scheduled to begin shortly before the 2:10 p.m. first pitch.

  • The Red Sox home opener against the San Diego Padres is on Friday, April 3, 2026.
  • The pre-game ceremonies are scheduled to begin shortly before the 2:10 p.m. first pitch.

The players

Tony Armas

A player from the 1986 Red Sox team that made it to the World Series.

Marty Barrett

A player from the 1986 Red Sox team that made it to the World Series.

Wade Boggs

A player from the 1986 Red Sox team that made it to the World Series.

Oil Can Boyd

A player from the 1986 Red Sox team that made it to the World Series.

Nik Walker

A Boston native and Broadway actor who will perform the National Anthem.

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What they’re saying

“Just hanging out… we have good friends coming. We don't see each other for 364 days a year.”

— Mike Columbare, Red Sox fan

“I think we get 17 wins in April. You get back on track — get to 90 wins.”

— Mike Columbare, Red Sox fan

What’s next

The Red Sox will look to build on the excitement of the 1986 team celebration as they aim to turn their slow start to the 2026 season around.

The takeaway

The Red Sox's celebration of their iconic 1986 team that made it to the World Series serves as a reminder of the franchise's rich history and the enduring passion of its loyal fanbase, who continue to pack Fenway Park for Opening Day and other special events.