And to think: All it took was two World Series titles.

When the Boston Red Sox had Bill Buckner throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Fenway Park Tuesday, it was more than a nostalgic nod. It was an act of sporting absolution, a way for fans to finally forgive the former first baseman for his epochal flubbed grounder in the 1986 World Series.

OK, Red Sox fan reeducation:
1. We can win the World Series.
2. And not just by a crazy comeback against the Yankees
3. Actually, our payroll resembles the Yankees now
4. And people other than Yankees fans no longer like the Red Sox or its fans
5. Bill Buckner is allowed in the state of Massachusetts again.

ESPN Page 2 - Hruby: A time to forgive