The celebrations that followed the Boston Red Sox’s first World Series title in 86 years are over. The team has completed an upbeat spring training while fans recalled their exploits of overcoming a 3-0 deficit and beating the New York Yankees in the AL championship series and then sweeping the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series.

The team is eager to defend its title with past stars such as outfielders Manny Ramirez and Johnny Damon, designated hitter David Ortiz, and pitcher Curt Schilling along with key newcomers such as shortstop Edgar Renteria and pitchers Matt Clement and David Wells.

Now it’s time to play ball as the team begins its quest to win its first back-to-back titles since 1915-16. The Sox open their 162-game regular season Sunday night in New York against the Yankees.