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David Ortiz

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description David Ortiz Overview

David Ortiz is a Dominican-American former professional baseball designated hitter who played primarily for the Boston Red Sox from 2003 to 2016. He helped lead the Red Sox to three World Series championships, including the historic 2004 title that ended an 86-year drought, and was named World Series MVP in 2013. His 541 career home runs rank among the most in MLB history for a designated hitter, and he was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2022 in his first year of eligibility.

help David Ortiz FAQ

Why was David Ortiz called Big Papi?

The nickname reflected Ortiz's habit of warmly calling teammates and acquaintances "Papi" when he could not remember their names. Broadcaster Jerry Remy helped popularize "Big Papi" during Ortiz's years with the Boston Red Sox.

What did David Ortiz do in the 2004 ALCS against the Yankees?

Ortiz delivered walk-off hits in Games 4 and 5 as Boston recovered from a 3-0 series deficit against New York. He was named ALCS MVP after the Red Sox completed the first comeback from that deficit in MLB postseason history.

How many World Series championships did David Ortiz win?

Ortiz won three World Series titles with Boston, in 2004, 2007, and 2013. He was the 2013 World Series MVP after batting .688 against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Did David Ortiz enter the Baseball Hall of Fame as a designated hitter?

Yes. Ortiz was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2022, his first year on the ballot, after finishing his career with 541 home runs.