James Paxton’s Emotional Tribute at Tim Wakefield Memorial Tournament Sparks Scholarship Fund

BELMONT, Mass. — Under a golden September sun at Belmont Country Club, the Tim Wakefield Memorial Golf Tournament became more than a fundraiser for the Red Sox Foundation. It transformed into a heartfelt celebration of a baseball legend’s life and legacy. James Paxton, the towering left-hander who shared the mound with Wakefield during their Red Sox days, stood before a crowd of players, fans, and families, delivering a ceremonial throw that carried the weight of memory. His voice trembled as he shared stories of the knuckleballer who mentored him, announcing a new scholarship fund for children of cancer patients in Wakefield’s honor. The moment resonated deeply, blending grief with hope.

Paxton, now 36, spoke of Wakefield not just as a teammate but as a guiding light. He recalled late-night bullpen sessions at Fenway Park, where Wakefield’s knuckleball danced unpredictably, teaching him resilience in the face of adversity. “Tim was more than a pitcher,” Paxton said, addressing the crowd. “He was a man who showed up for everyone, especially kids fighting battles bigger than baseball.” Wakefield, who passed away in 2023 at 57 after a courageous fight with brain cancer, was a pillar of the Boston community, his foundation raising millions for children’s hospitals. Paxton’s stories painted a vivid picture: Wakefield staying late to sign autographs for sick children, his laughter echoing through hospital wards.

The scholarship fund, launched through the Red Sox Foundation, aims to support families of young cancer patients, covering educational costs for children whose parents face medical hardship. Paxton’s announcement drew applause, with attendees visibly moved. The initiative reflects Wakefield’s lifelong commitment to giving back, a mission that defined his 19-year career, including the 2004 World Series triumph that ended Boston’s 86-year drought. “This is Tim’s legacy,” Paxton said. “Helping kids dream big, no matter what they’re facing.”

The tournament, an annual event since Wakefield’s passing, drew hundreds of supporters to Belmont’s rolling fairways. Red Sox alumni like Jason Varitek and current players mingled with fans, sharing memories of Wakefield’s grit and generosity. A video tribute played on screens, showcasing his iconic knuckleball and quieter moments of charity work. One fan, holding a sign reading “Wakefield Forever,” wiped away tears as Paxton spoke. The event raised significant funds, with donations still pouring in via redsoxfoundation.org.

Paxton’s connection to Wakefield runs deep. He described a moment in 2013 when Wakefield, then retired, called to check on him after a rough outing. “He didn’t talk stats,” Paxton said. “He talked about heart, about showing up for your team.” That advice, Paxton noted, carried him through his own career challenges, including injuries that tested his resolve. Now, through the scholarship, he hopes to pass that strength to the next generation.

As the day closed, Paxton lingered on the green, shaking hands and sharing stories with fans. The crowd dispersed, but the spirit of Wakefield lingered, a reminder of baseball’s power to unite and uplift. The scholarship fund, Paxton vowed, will grow, ensuring that Wakefield’s name continues to inspire. For those who knew him, and those who only knew his legend, the day was a testament to a man whose impact transcended the diamond.