Fenway Park’s most beloved pitcher and MLB Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez is once again bringing back his Feast with 45 to his home field. On Sunday, the third annual food festival to benefit his foundation that he set up with his wife Carolina (the Pedro Martinez Foundation) is dedicated to improving the lives of at-risk youth in Boston, the Dominican Republic and beyond.
We caught up recently with Pedro to hear more about his food festival, find out his thoughts on this year’s team and learn the secrets to a championship baseball team.
What initially inspired you to make Feast with 45 an annual event?
Our first Feast with 45 was so much fun, and seeing how much fans loved the event made us think “why not provide this opportunity every year and benefit a great cause at the same time?” So here we are!
How fulfilling is it for you to be able to give an opportunity to a child who might not have had it through the work of your foundation?
I have to tell you, it’s the greatest joy in the world. I know the difference a helping hand can make in the life of a child, so we want to be that helping hand for as many children as we possibly can.
Thoughts on this year’s team?
Our team is great; it’s just a matter of adjusting to the World Series drought that all teams usually go through. We will get there; fans just need to be a bit patient.
Photo Credit: Pedro Martinez Foundation
Players to watch this season?
Vlad Junior (Toronto Blue Jays); Fernando Tatís (San Diego Padres) and Pete Alonso (New York Mets)
How demanding was it playing in such a sports passionate city with such high expectations of winning?
It was very hard, but at the same time their passion and high expectations pushed me to give each game my very best and to continue to better my craft. That definitely helped made me who I am today.
What would you say are the secrets to a championship baseball team?
Talent, unity and good health
