Thursday morning was anything but ordinary at the Dunkin’ Donuts on County Road in Westbrook. A police car in the street outside, television news crews both inside and out of the store and a parking lot filled to capacity meant something or someone special was making an appearance at the local establishment. On this particular occasion, it was both.
Not only did Boston Red Sox representatives bring the World Series trophy for all to see, but Dunkin’ Donuts – in conjunction with the Red Sox – was pleased to host a member of the winning team from last fall’s October Classic. Jacoby Ellsbury, the former Portland Sea Dog and current first year phenom of the Red Sox made an appearance to meet fans and help promote a new menu item for the national food chain.
“It’s always great to have someone like Jacoby Ellsbury or another member of the Red Sox here,” said Dunkin Donuts Director of Operations Mike DaRosa. “It was a natural to have him come up here and re-kindle his old stomping grounds. It’s great for business and it’s great for publicity.”
A large crowd packed the restaurant and the overflow of fans waited outside the doors for Ellsbury to say hello. Just after 9 a.m., the Red Sox outfielder found himself behind the counter handing out food while being deluged by a hundred or so well wishers seemingly all armed with digital cameras.
Ellsbury enjoyed his short stint as a Dunkin’ Donuts staffer-even donning a head set and waiting on several drive-up customers. Many of the fans were disappointed to hear that because of a lack of time, he would be unable to sign autographs. Nonetheless, Ellsbury’s visit pleased everyone who had waited to see one of Boston’s World Series heroes in person.
Ellsbury played in 17 games for the Sea Dogs early last year before getting called up to Class AAA Pawtucket. He batted .452 with 33 hits in 78 at bats in his brief stay with Portland. (In 2006, he played in 50 games for the Sea Dogs.)
The 24-year-old Oregon native played in 11 games during the post-season finishing with a .360 average while providing a spark for the club both offensively and defensively.
Boston Red Sox pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report for spring training in Fort Myers, Fla., on Feb. 15. Position players are scheduled to report Feb. 20. The Sox will open the 2008 campaign with a series of two games against Oakland in Tokyo in late March. The Red Sox home opener is against Detroit on Tuesday, April 8.
Ellsbury’s visit a breakfast treat
Boston Red Sox Centerfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, number 46, greets fans Thursday morning at Dunkin’ Donuts in Westbrook.
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