Santo Domingo, RD. This Tuesday, November 18th, David Americo Ortiz Arias, better known as “Big Papi”, celebrates his 50th anniversary, a milestone that comes amid worldwide recognition of his outstanding career and legacy as a key figure in the history of Dominican baseball and Major League Baseball. Cooperstown Hall of Fame member since 2022 and a reference for designated hitters, Ortiz has forged an epic history in the sport. His record includes three World Series championships, unforgettable moments in the postseason, and a unique emotional connection with millions of fans in the Dominican Republic, Boston, and the world. His life, full of triumphs, adversities and leadership, has been etched in the collective memory of the sport.
From La Agustina to Cooperstown
Born on November 18, 1975, in La Agustina, Ortiz grew up in Santo Domingo, showing his passion for baseball from a young age. At 17, he signed with the Seattle Mariners (1992) and made his professional debut in the Arizona League. In the Dominican Baseball League (LIDOM), he debuted with the Leones del Escogido at 19 years old, establishing himself as a rising figure in Dominican winter baseball in the late 90s.Call-Up to the Major Leagues
Ortiz debuted in MLB on September 2, 1997 with the Minnesota Twins, where he played until 2002. After being released, Pedro Martínez intervened so that the Boston Red Sox would offer him a contract in January 2003, an agreement that would prove to be a historic success.Boston: Glory, Heroes, and History
Ortiz became a franchise icon, excelling in:- The historic comeback of 2004 against the Yankees.
- 2004 Championship Series MVP.
- World Series Champion in 2004, 2007, and 2013.
- 2013 World Series MVP.
His numbers, personality, and achievements made him a symbol of Boston and a Dominican pride.This is our f*ing city.
David Ortiz
A Legacy Beyond the Diamond
In addition to his successes in the field, Ortiz has promoted social works through the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, funding surgeries for children with heart problems in the DR and the US. His figure has transcended as a businessman, commentator, and community leader.A New Stage
Currently, at 50 years old, Ortiz remains active in baseball, working as an analyst at FOX Sports and supporting the careers of his children, including D’Angelo, a Red Sox player. With 541 home runs, 1,768 RBIs, and an OPS of .931 in 20 seasons, his name is assured among the greatest in the history of the sport.David Ortiz’s Statistics in Major League Baseball
| Categoría | Total |
|---|---|
| Temporadas | 20 |
| Promedio de bateo | .286 |
| Jonrones (HR) | 541 |
| Carreras impulsadas (RBI) | 1,768 |
| OPS | .931 |
| WAR (Baseball Reference) | 55.0 |
| Series Mundiales ganadas | 3 (2004, 2007, 2013) |
| JMV de Serie Mundial | 2013 |
| JMV de Serie de Campeonato | 2004 |
| Juegos de Estrellas | 10 |
| Bates de Plata | 7 |
