It was catchers’ day at the recent BoSox Club June Luncheon. Current Red Sox catcher Mickey Gasper and 1970s Red Sox catcher Bob Montgomery were the honored guests…and even the event’s emcee, NESN host Adam Pellerin discussed his time as a catcher in his college days.

After a few minutes of signing autographs and interacting with fans, the guests shared stories and insights on what has been a disappointing season so far.

This season marks the second go-around with the Red Sox for Gasper, who was originally signed by the Yankees in the 2018 draft and spent the 2025 season with the Twins, is grateful for everyday he is playing in Major League Baseball and has a pregame ritual where he takes a long look at his jersey and reminds himself that “8-year old Mickey would be beside himself.” Having grown up a Red Sox fan in Merrimac, NH, Gasper is optimistic about the rest of the 2026 season and appreciates the die-hard Boston fans for keeping their faith in the team. Oh, and about the moustache…Mickey assures us that it’s here for good, “as long as my fiance is a fan of it!”

Fan favorite Bob Montgomery caught for the Red Sox from 1970 – 79 and spent fourteen seasons (1982–1995) as the color commentator for Red Sox telecasts on WSBK-TV and NESN (1985–1987).

Never one to mince words, Bob was asked what he thinks about the recent changes to baseball, including the “robo-umpire” challenge system. “I think they should just hire better umpires,” he responded.

Regarding the 2026 Red Sox season, having played for both good teams in Boston as well as some not-so-good teams, Bob talked about looking for as many positives as possible and focusing on fundamentals as a way of keeping players and fans looking forward to the next at bat, or the next inning, or the next game.