Boston Officials Encourage Fans To Cheer Sox On Responsibly

Boston officials encouraged fans Tuesday to be responsible and respectful as they cheer on the Red Sox in World Series games against the St. Louis Cardinals at Fenway Park this week.

Sports championship celebrations in Boston in the past decade have resulted in violence and even death.

"Please help us to keep you safe and don't allow anyone to tarnish the image of Boston Strong," said Boston Police Superintendent Daniel Linskey, using the phrase that resonated after the April 15 bombings at the finish line of the Boston Marathon that killed three and wounded more than 260.

Linskey said Boston police have met with bar owners and will meet with college and university officials to talk about curbing underage drinking and keeping students safe. He said that since the bombings, people have stepped up and done what officials have asked in the name of safety.

He said there will be enhanced police presence for the first two games and everyone will be working if there is a potential clinching game in Boston.

Mayor Thomas Menino suggested fans attending the game take public transportation. He also asked everyone to wear red Wednesday to support the players.

"This Red Sox team plays with a lot of heart," he said. "I want to thank the team for giving us another thrilling season of baseball."

The Red Sox won the World Series in 2004 and 2007, but team president and CEO Larry Lucchino said this year's team is different because of the way players have embraced and cared about the city and the region. Since the marathon bombings, there has been a 617 Boston Strong shirt in the dugout for every game.

"As human beings these guys understand what the city, the region and the victims went through, and I do think it helped them bond to each other and to this community," he said.