"Big Papi" happy to extend Red Sox stay

Published November 20, 2014

Big-hitting David Ortiz has agreed terms on a one-year deal to extend his stay with the Boston Red Sox, the team announced on Monday.

Known as "Big Papi," the ever-smiling designated-hitter has been one of the faces of the Red Sox for the past nine seasons, though that status was put in jeopardy on the back of Boston's shambolic end to the 2011 season.

The Red Sox lost 20 of their final 27 contests to blow a nine-game division lead and miss the playoffs. Following the collapse, details emerged about the team's undisciplined clubhouse and manager Terry Francona left his position.

Ortiz initially expressed uncertainty that he would want to remain in a Red Sox uniform, where he won championships in 2004 and 2007, but the seven-time All Star has now committed to at least another season.

The left-hander batted .309 with 29 home runs and 96 RBIs last season.

"We're happy this is done and can agree on something that is really fair for both David and the team, and move forward and get ready to move into our new complex and get going with spring training," Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington told the team's website (boston.redsox.mlb.com)."

"The best DH (designated hitter) in the game - that guy's back on the team."

(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by John O'Brien)

URL

https://www.foxnews.com/sports/big-papi-happy-to-extend-red-sox-stay