It's a high-flying week in Aledo, Texas, where pride has scaled new heights after hometown hero Cody Bradford, the Texas Rangers' pitcher, received hometown honors following the team's historic World Series win. The Rangers notched their first-ever championship, shutting out the Arizona Diamondbacks with a 5-0 win last Wednesday, a victory still resonating through the town of just over 6,000 residents, as reported by FOX 4 News.
Events coming off the back of the Rangers win saw Bradford being unexpectedly celebrated by his alma mater and the local community. Aledo High School's baseball field, where Bradford once played, turned into a stage of reverence as the city declared December 4 "Cody Bradford Day". The celebrations didn't end there; Bradford's jersey number 18 was retired in his honor, with his former baseball coach declaring, "No other Aledo baseball player will wear that number", per FOX 4 News.
Bradford's achievements were felt across generations, from current students at Stuard Elementary, where chants of "Cody! Cody! Cody!" filled the gym to past mentors who recalled his intellect and dedication. Bradford, who also happens to be the valedictorian of his graduating class, has had a scholarship named after him, aimed at benefiting a baseball player with the highest GPA, as reported by NBC DFW.
In the heat of the festivities, the emotional pitcher expressed his gratitude, saying, "Thank you guys so much for everything that you’ve done for me and my family and the support you’ve shown along the way. I just hope that I can repay you guys and make you guys proud". The night capped off with a ceremonial pitch from Bradford to his father, underscoring the sentimental value of the accomplishments not just to Bradford but to the entire community gathered to celebrate one of their own, as per FOX 4 News.
Monday's event also served a charitable purpose, raising funds through t-shirt sales and donations. All proceeds are set to benefit the Miracle League of DFW, a favorite charity of Bradford and his wife, ensuring that the pitcher's impact goes beyond the game, touching lives across the community and beyond.
