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 designated hitter who played 20 MLB seasons (1997-2016), mainly for the Boston Red Sox. After playing six seasons with the Minnesota Twins, he became a cornerstone of the Red Sox, helping end their 86-year World Series drought in 2004 and winning further championships in 2007 and 2013, earning the World Series MVP award in 2013. During his first five seasons with the Red Sox, Ortiz averaged 41 home runs and 128 RBIs, twice leading the AL in RBIs and setting a team record of 54 home runs in 2006. He consistently ranked among the top five in AL MVP voting during those five years.

Sections (6)

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

1998: Wrist Fracture and Rookie Season

In 1998, David Ortiz aimed to be the Twins' regular first baseman, but after batting .306 through May 9, he fractured his wrist and went on the disabled list. He returned in July and finished the season batting .277 with nine home runs and 46 RBI in 86 games.

1999: Sent to Triple-A

In 1999, after a tough spring training, David Ortiz was sent down to the Triple-A Salt Lake Buzz as Doug Mientkiewicz earned the first base job. Despite a strong minor league season, Ortiz struggled upon his September call-up, failing to register a hit in 20 at-bats.

2001: Injury and Production Dip

In 2001, David Ortiz started strong but a wrist fracture landed him on the disabled list. After returning, his production was affected, finishing with a .234 average. The Twins had their first winning season since 1992.

2002: Mother's Death and Career Year

In 2002, David Ortiz faced personal tragedy with the death of his mother on New Year's Day. Despite battling knee injuries, he turned in a strong second half of the season, finishing with career bests in home runs and RBI. On August 16, he hit a home run off Pedro Martínez and on September 25, he hit his first career walk-off home run. The Twins also qualified for the postseason.

2003: Released by Twins

On December 16, 2003, the Twins released David Ortiz as a cost-cutting move after being unable to trade him.

2008: Offensive Decline

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

2008: Wrist Injury and All-Star Selection

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

2012: 400th Career Home Run and Achilles Injury

In 2012, David Ortiz hit his 400th career home run on July 4th. Later that month, on July 16th, he suffered an Achilles tendon injury, sidelining him for a significant portion of the 2012 season.

2012: Offensive Decline

Up until 2012, David Ortiz experienced a drop in his offensive numbers.

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 the damage.