Thursday, 4:30 PM
State political leaders salute Red Sox at State House rally
By Globe Staff
Governor Deval Patrick did his best impression of a boxing announcer today as he tried to fire up a crowd on the State House steps during what may be the final ceremony this fall honoring the world champion Red Sox.
"Allllllright, Red Sox nation!" Patrick yelled in a deep, gravely voice into a microphone at a podium under a huge Red Sox banner hanging from the State House dome.
"Thank you for the lift you have given to this city and to the Commonwealth," Patrick said. "And doing it in four games so we could get back to sleep."
Attended by Red Sox owners and two of the team’s catchers -- Doug Mirabelli and Jason Varitek -- the ceremony allowed the state’s top political leaders to join the Red Sox revelry with a few one liners.
"I'd like to say to all those people in New York," said House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi, "how do you like them Red Sox now?"
Senate President Therese Murray added: "Winning championships isn't easy, but I think we can get used to this ... Red Sox Nation is on top of the world to stay."
Red Sox owners John Henry and Tom Werner thanked fans for their support and promised to bring home more World Series trophies. Mirabelli and Varitek spoke briefly, underscoring the importance of the fans after they fell behind to the Indians 3-1.
"When we came back from Cleveland we knew we had a severe advantage because we were coming home," Varitek said, "On behalf of the Red Sox, the players, my teammates -- thank you."
