Jon Lester defines class on & off the diamond

Boston Red Sox pitcher Jon Lester has experienced more by age 26, than most people do within an entire lifetime.

The Tacoma, Washington native has beaten cancer, pitched a no-hitter and earned a win in a World Series clinching game.

Lester enters Thursday's game vs. the Minnesota Twins with a career record of 45-18.

After years of continually being mentioned in trade rumors for superstars the likes of Alex Rodriguez, Josh Beckett and Johan Santana, it appears that Lester will be in Boston for many years to come. Prior to last season, Lester inked a 5-year/$30 million contract with the Red Sox.

Through the many ups and downs of his Boston life, Lester has absolutely developed an affinity for the fans of Red Sox Nation. It is equally clear that the fans share this same level of admiration for the tall lefty.

Below are two pieces of video displaying this situation. Both occurring during the summer of 2009.

The first setting is Furnace Brook Middle School in Marshfield, Massachusetts. The second scene took place at Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester, MA.

During both events, Lester answers questions from Red Sox fans young and older.