Trey Mancini was given a standing ovation when introduced at Camden Yards on Thursday and again before his first home at-bat following treatment for colon cancer.
The 29-year-old was diagnosed during spring training last year and missed the pandemic-shortened 2020 season.
The visiting Boston Red Sox players applauded during the ovation, and Mancini tipped his batting helmet in appreciation. He grounded into a forceout, beating the relay throw to avoid a double play.
"It was amazing. I think it's well-documented at this point what I went through and what it took to get back to playing," Mancini said. "It meant the world to me. Even though it was like 25% capacity, it felt like a full stadium out there, and I had goosebumps thinking about it.''
Mancini said he teared up when he heard the initial ovation.
"That's probably what will stay with me the most,'' he said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.