SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico -- Students shouted "Ivan! Ivan! Ivan!" as Ivan Rodriguez visited his former elementary school on Friday, part of a three-day celebration Puerto Rico planned for the newly elected Hall of Fame catcher.
The 14-time All-Star waved as he posed for pictures in his hometown of Vega Baja.
"What a joy to return to my school," he said. "I'm very happy that you're here with me on such a special day."
Hundreds of people followed Pudge, some carrying pictures, baseballs and flyers for him to sign. They joined him as he received a blessing at a church and cheered as he accepted the keys of the town, located on the island's north coast.