San Diego Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts faced his former team, the Boston Red Sox, for just the second time since leaving after the 2022 season during a weekend series. Bogaerts broke a personal hitless streak versus Boston by launching a home run in the second inning off Red Sox starter Lucas Giolito on Saturday, marking a memorable moment for both the player and longtime broadcaster Don Orsillo.

Orsillo’s Signature Call Highlights Bogaerts’ Blast

Don Orsillo, who previously served as Boston’s play-by-play announcer and now calls games for the Padres, delivered his famous exclamation, “Bogey goes boom,” as the ball cleared the left-field fence. This distinctive call, familiar to Red Sox fans, underscored the significance of Bogaerts’ home run and reignited memories for followers of both the team and the player’s career.

Bogaerts Reflects on Shared History with Orsillo and Boston

After the game, Bogaerts shared his thoughts in an interview with Fox 5’s Bri Savant, reflecting on hearing Orsillo’s presence during the home run and the shared history they hold. He described how Orsillo’s commentary has accompanied many important moments throughout his professional journey and highlighted the emotional connection to his former club.

I’ll hear it when I get home, I wasn’t able to hear that yet. What can I say? I have a lot of memories. And also, with Don, my first couple years in the big leagues, Don was there. It’s a very new team. But it’s still the Red Sox. It’s a lot of new young guys. It’s always a place that is close to your heart. I had a lot of great times. Great people over there, great friendships. So it was nice.

—Xander Bogaerts, San Diego Padres shortstop

Orsillo Expresses Excitement for New Chapter with Bogaerts in San Diego

Don Orsillo responded to the social media buzz created by Bri Savant’s coverage, sharing his affection and enthusiasm for calling Bogaerts’ games in San Diego. He expressed his joy at being part of this second phase in both their careers and his hopes for shared success with the Padres.

I love you Bogey! So glad we are together for both of our 2nd chapters and can’t wait to win another ring together.

—Don Orsillo, San Diego Padres broadcaster

Padres Take Series as Bogaerts and Orsillo Look Ahead

San Diego clinched two of the three games in the series, giving Bogaerts and Orsillo a satisfying victory over the Red Sox. Although this home run and the wins marked a strong milestone in Bogaerts’ early seasons with the Padres, Orsillo’s mention of winning “another ring together” signals the team’s ongoing ambition to compete at the highest level and achieve further triumphs in the future.