FORT WORTH, Texas — Fort Worth mayor Mattie Parker presented the Texas Rangers with a key to the city Thursday, during the city's celebration of the team's World Series win.
Parker joked recognizing the team at city hall would've been "boring," so Fort Worth instead opted to host the party at Billy Bob's.
It's the first time Parker has given anyone a key to the city, she said. The mayor celebrated her 40th birthday at the event.
"We finally are world champions," owner Ray Davis said after accepting the key. "Let me assure you, the next one won't take as long."
Several hundred people crowded into the honky-tonk to see the Commissioner's Trophy. The Squeezebox Bandits, a Fort Worth band, played before the ceremony.
Some fans arrived as early as 7 a.m.
"It's just a 'never stop celebrating' moment," attendee Jason Hicks said. "I want to be a part of it with a lot of Rangers fans."
Rangers pitcher Andrew Heaney spoke to the crowd and signed autographs after the celebration. Heaney recently opted-in to a player option, effectively re-signing to play for Texas next season.
"I want to defend our title," he said, when asked why he elected to return.
Former Rangers outfielder David Murphy, who played on Texas's 2010 and 2011 World Series teams, and Rangers legend Tom Grieve also spoke to the crowd.
Fans could also purchase World Series merchandise and take pictures with the trophy.
"I've been here for 37 years," attendee Robert Leach said. "I've been waiting a long time for this."
"I brought my son to celebrate together," attendee Johnny Marquez said. "I wish my grandpa was here because the Rangers were his big thing. There was not one day that we missed a chance to watch the Rangers together... this is where the happiness and the party is at."