Wally the Green Monster is the official mascot for the Boston Red Sox. His name is derived from the Green Monster, the nickname of the 37-foot 2-inch wall in left field at Fenway Park. Wally debuted on April 13, 1997. Although he was an immediate success with children, he was not as well-received by older fans. Wally has since become more accepted by Red Sox fans of all ages, in part due to the late fan-favorite Red Sox broadcaster Jerry Remy creating stories about him and sharing them during televised games. Fictional biography According to the Boston Red Sox, Wally has been a long-time resident of Fenway Park, residing in the Green Monster wall since 1947. He wears Red Sox jersey #97, indicating the year of his emergence from the wall, and consistently wears his team-issued size 37 cap. In his spare time, Wally likes to play catch with the Red Sox players, and read his favorite book "Hello, Wally" written by his good friend and NESN Red Sox Broadcaster Jerry Remy. He also sneaks into the concession stands when no one is looking to grab a bite (or more) to eat. He prepares for every Red Sox game by eating a good meal, watching batting practice, and tuning into Red Sox Pregame as he ties up his shoes and grabs his trusty Red Sox flag. Role in games As pregame starts, Wally is on the field greeting fans near field level by taking pictures, signing autographs and sneaking in a kiss or two to the many fans of Red Sox Nation. After photo ops with some of Fenway's special guests of the game, he can be seen waving his flag and cheering on the Red Sox as the starting lineups are announced. After the national anthem is sung, Wally and a guest formally begin the game with the announcement "play ball". Throughout the game, Wally can be seen making seat visits for some special guests, and jumping up on the dugout to sing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the seventh-inning stretch. On weekends, Wally can be seen out on Jersey Street taking pictures with fans who visit the "street fair atmosphere" of Wally's World around the third inning of the ballgame. Some of Wally's memorable moments of being the Red Sox mascot have come while away from Fenway. Whether it is traveling to Fort Myers, Florida