8-year-old Red Sox fan has public meltdown after brother throws foul ball back on field

MILTON, Mass. — A Milton family at the center of a viral video at Fenway Park spoke to Boston 25 News about the eight-year-old’s public meltdown after losing a foul ball to his little brother.

Jack Mulligan had waited his whole life for the foul ball hit to left field while he sat in the stands with his family on Father’s Day. But after a friendly fan handed the ball to his five-year-old brother, Charlie didn’t pass the ball over to Jack – he threw it back onto the field.

Heartbroken, Jack is seen on live television stomping his feet, his rage quickly turning to despair as he sobs on his father Pat’s shoulder. Meanwhile, Charlie hides under his seat, afraid to face his big brother.

“I thought the player said, ‘pass it,’ and I threw it,” Charlie recalled Monday. “And my brother screamed and hurt my ears.”

“I was like, that’s the most typical Charlie thing I’ve ever seen,” Jack added.

While Pat comforted his elder son, he was unaware of the audience he was entertaining.

“I didn’t realize it was on TV, but once you start to, ‘Uh oh, I think people know about this,’” Pat said. “Then you’re kind of like, maybe we should leave.”

But lucky for the Mulligan boys, the Red Sox had a backup plan that was even sweeter than a foul ball.

Team personnel brought an autographed jersey from Kenley Jansen and a signed ball from the pitcher with the message, “I saw you on TV when I’m getting ready.”

In the dramatic turn of events, Jack has forgiven his little brother.

“A bunch of people came up and gave me all this stuff, and I was pretty grateful that you threw the ball,” Jack said, pointing to Charlie. “Yeah, he’s the best.”

Mom Jaime, who had been in the refreshment line while the chaos unfolded returned to the heartwarming scene. Never did she imagine the drama would go viral.

“I think it resonates with people, but I think for me it was a nice opportunity for Pat to be seen in action for what he does every day,” Jaime said. “I think he’s a great dad.”

Tears shed after young Red Sox fan launches ultimate Father’s Day gift back onto field

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