Laurila: Players’ view: Farewell, David Ortiz
From SABR member David Laurila at FanGraphs on October 3, 2016:
David Ortiz was feted at Fenway Park yesterday. The 40-year-old slugger will retire following the postseason, and he’s deserving of any and all accolades that come his way. “Big Papi” finished the regular-season portion of career with 541 home runs, 4,765 total bases, and a .931 OPS.
His October exploits are legendary. Ortiz has 17 home runs and 60 RBI in postseason action, many of which have come in key situations. The Red Sox have captured three World Series titles — their first since 1918 — since he joined the team in 2003. His slash line in those Fall Classics is .455/.576/.795.
The Dominican Republic born-and-raised slugger is a Boston icon for more than his on-field accomplishments. His charitable endeavors have been exemplary, his engaging personality omnipresent. His larger-than-life persona has captivated his adopted home. Ortiz will long be remembered for his words following the Boston Marathon bombing: ‘This is our f-ing city.”
Myriad people throughout the game have shared their thoughts on the soon-to-retire superstar in recent weeks. I collected quotes from 15, including players, manager, executives and broadcasters.
Read the full article here: http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/players-view-farewell-david-ortiz/
Originally published: October 3, 2016. Last Updated: October 3, 2016.