Challenges in the Life of David Ortiz in a Detailed Timeline

Life is full of challenges, and David Ortiz faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

David Ortiz, nicknamed "Big Papi", is a Dominican-American former professional baseball designated hitter. He played 20 seasons in MLB (1997-2016), mostly for the Boston Red Sox. After playing with the Minnesota Twins for six seasons, he joined the Red Sox and played a key role in ending their 86-year World Series drought in 2004, and won championships in 2007 and 2013, being named World Series MVP in 2013. In his first five seasons with the Red Sox, he averaged 41 home runs and 128 RBIs, leading the AL twice in RBIs and setting the team's single-season record of 54 home runs in 2006. He consistently ranked in the top five for the AL MVP award during those years.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1999: Sent Down to Triple-A

In 1999, after a tough spring training, David Ortiz was sent down to the Triple-A Salt Lake Buzz, and later earned a September call-up but struggled.

2001: Injury and Inconsistent Performance

In 2001, David Ortiz started strong but suffered another wrist fracture, affecting his production and leading to a disappointing .234 average, though he showed promise with 11 home runs in the final two months.

2002: Tragedy and Career Best Season

In 2002, David Ortiz faced the tragedy of his mother's death, battled knee injuries, and had a tale of two seasons, with a disappointing first half followed by a strong second half. He hit a memorable home run off Pedro Martínez on August 16 and finished with career bests in home runs and RBI.

2003: Release from the Twins

On December 16, David Ortiz was released by the Minnesota Twins as a cost-cutting move after the 2002 season.

2008: Injury and All-Star selection

In 2008, David Ortiz had a slow start due to a wrist injury, playing in 109 games and finishing the season with 23 home runs and 89 RBI while batting .264. Despite his struggles, Ortiz was named to his fifth All-Star team in 2008.

2008: Offensive Decline

Starting in 2008, David Ortiz experienced a drop in his offensive numbers.

2012: 400th career home run and injury

In 2012, David Ortiz hit .405 in the first month. On July 4, 2012, Ortiz hit his 400th career home run. On July 16, 2012, Ortiz suffered an injury to his right Achilles tendon.

June 9, 2019: Ortiz shot in Dominican Republic

On June 9, 2019, David Ortiz was shot and severely wounded while at the Dial Bar and Lounge in East Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. He underwent multiple surgeries to repair damage to his intestines, colon, gallbladder, and liver.