The actual first pitch is moments away, and the ceremony -- one of sport's coolest traditions -- has just concluded. The Boston Pops played the national anthem, Senator Kennedy threw out the first pitch, the Red Sox came in through the stands, the opposing players were roundly booed, and Johnny Pesky said "Play Ball!" It was everything you would expect.

The Rays, introduced by radio announcer Joe Castiglione, went first. James Shields and Matt Garza were booed loudest. Gabe Kapler received a long standing ovation, Rhode Island native Dan Wheeler drew a few cheers, and Northeastern alum Carlos Pena got some nice applause.

The Red Sox entered the field through the stands, then jogged to the first base line. Dustin Pedroia, the reigning MVP, seemed to receive the loudest roar. Daisuke Matsuzaka, Jon Lester, David Ortiz, Pesky, John Smoltz, Jonathan Papelbon, Terry Francona, and Jacoby Ellsbury, also got warm welcomes.

Four F-15 Eagle Tactical Fighter Jets from the 104th Fighter Wing of the Massachusetts Air National Guard, which is based in Westfield, flew over Fenway Park.

Senator Edward M. Kennedy threw out the first pitch after riding in from right field on a golf cart driven by Hall of Famer-to-be Jim Rice. Kennedy shook hands with manager Terry Francona and chatted with Red Sox owners before walking slowly, with the aid of a cane, to the base of the pitching mound. He received a standing ovation when he reached the dirt. Kennedy threw the ball only about five feet, bouncing it to Rice. Then he threw another at Rice's urging, which hit Rice's catcher's mitt.