Johnny Pesky's legacy in Boston is one unmatched by nearly any other athlete in the city's long and storied history.
The legendary Red Sox infielder passed away at age 92, but while his physical presence may be absent from the team facility his spirit will live on in the form of players, coaches and fans everywhere.
Pesky was not the most talented player in Red Sox history, although his .307 career batting average is an impressive mark, but his importance and impact on the organization is unparalleled.
He played eight seasons for the Red Sox (1942, 1946-1952) — although it would have been 11 if not taking three years off to fight World War II — but Pesky's most memorable moments with the Sox have come during his post-playing days.
Pesky took over the reigns as Red Sox manager on two different occasions (1963-64, 1980) and spent many years as part of the Boston coaching staff. No. 6, who had his number retired in right field at Fenway in 2008 and also had the foul pole named in his honor, also spent some time as an analyst on the Red Sox broadcast.
But even more importantly than his accomplishments set in the record books was Pesky's love for the team and his dedication to Red Sox Nation. Pesky spent time as a special instructor to the team, thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to teach players, but he was also the organization's unofficial good will ambassador. He welcomed fans with open arms, signed autographs for hours on end and sometimes just chatted it up with people in and around the ballpark.
It's certainly a sad day for all of Red Sox Nation, but the legend of Johnny Pesky will forever live on.
Click here to see photos of Johnny Pesky through the years >>
