David Ortiz, nicknamed "Big Papi", is a Dominican-American former baseball player known for his time with the Boston Red Sox. He played 20 seasons in MLB, primarily as a designated hitter. After six seasons with the Minnesota Twins, he joined the Red Sox and became a key player in their World Series victories in 2004, 2007, and 2013, earning the World Series MVP award in 2013. He was a powerful hitter, known for his home runs and RBIs, and is considered one of the greatest designated hitters in baseball history.
1931: Ortiz and Ramirez Match a Historic Feat
Ortiz and Ramirez became the first pair of AL teammates to achieve 40 home runs, 100 RBIs, and a .300 batting average since Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig of the Yankees in 1931.
1938: Jimmie Foxx Sets Red Sox Home Run Record
Jimmie Foxx hit 50 home runs for the Boston Red Sox in 1938, a record that would stand for many years.
November 18, 1975: Birth of David Ortiz
David Américo Ortiz Arias, later known as "Big Papi," was born on November 18, 1975.
November 28, 1992: Signing with the Seattle Mariners
David Ortiz, then known as David Arias, signed with the Seattle Mariners on November 28, 1992, just 10 days after his 17th birthday.
1995: Improved Performance in the Minor Leagues
David Ortiz showcased improvement in 1995, boosting his batting average, home runs, and RBIs while playing in the minor leagues.
September 13, 1996: Trade to the Minnesota Twins and Name Change
On September 13, 1996, David Ortiz was traded to the Minnesota Twins. Upon joining the Twins, he switched from using his maternal family name, "Arias," to his paternal family name, "Ortiz."
1996: Promotion to Single-A and Recognition
David Ortiz advanced to the Single-A Wisconsin Timber Rattlers in 1996, earning recognition as a top prospect and impressing fans and fellow players with his hitting prowess.
September 2, 1997: First Major League Hit and Home Run
David Ortiz made his MLB debut with the Minnesota Twins on September 2, 1997, recording his first hit on September 3 and his first home run on September 14.
1997: Rapid Rise Through the Twins System
David Ortiz quickly climbed the ranks within the Minnesota Twins organization in 1997, progressing from High-A to Triple-A and earning a September call-up to the major leagues.
1997: Major League Debut
David Ortiz made his Major League Baseball debut with the Minnesota Twins in 1997.
1998: Wrist Injury and Strong Finish
David Ortiz experienced a wrist fracture in 1998 but finished the season strongly, batting .360 in September.
1999: Sent Down to the Minor Leagues
Despite a strong performance in Triple-A, David Ortiz struggled in limited major league appearances in 1999 and was sent back down to the minor leagues.
June 2000: Becoming an MLB Regular and First Grand Slam
David Ortiz solidified his position as a regular player for the Minnesota Twins by June 2000, and on September 7, he hit his first career grand slam.
2001: Ortiz's Season with the Twins
In 2001, Ortiz started strong with the Twins but suffered another wrist fracture. Despite hitting 11 home runs in the final two months, he finished with a disappointing average. The Twins, however, had their first winning season since 1992.
January 2002: Honoring His Mother's Memory
Ortiz's signature home run celebration of pointing to the sky was a tribute to his mother, Angela Rosa Arias, who died in a car crash in January 2002. He also has a tattoo of her on his biceps.
August 2002: Ortiz Signed by the Red Sox
Pedro Martínez, impressed by Ortiz's performance against him in August 2002, urged the Red Sox to sign him. Ortiz signed with the Red Sox as a free agent in early 2003, joining a crowded field vying for playing time at first base and designated hitter.
2002: Ortiz's Breakthrough Season with the Twins
2002 was a year of highs and lows for Ortiz. He lost his mother in a car accident but had a breakthrough season with the Twins, hitting a memorable home run off Pedro Martínez and his first walk-off home run. Despite a slow start, he helped the Twins reach the postseason for the first time since 1992, delivering clutch hits in the process.
2003: MLB Survey Testing
In 2003, Major League Baseball conducted survey testing to determine the prevalence of performance-enhancing drug use among players.
2003: MLB Drug Testing Controversy
In 2003, questions arose about the accuracy and interpretation of MLB drug tests. Factors such as the high number of players on the list compared to positive specimens, the testing lab's methods, and the potential for legal supplements to trigger false positives fueled the controversy.
2003: Ortiz's First Postseason Home Run
In the 2003 postseason, Ortiz hit his first career postseason home run during the ALCS against the New York Yankees, although the Red Sox ultimately lost the series.
2003: MLB Drug Testing Controversy
In 2003, David Ortiz's name was mentioned in connection to a controversial MLB drug testing program. The testing methods and results were questioned, with concerns about false positives and the use of legal supplements that could have affected the outcomes.
2003: Ortiz Released by the Twins
Despite Ortiz's career year in 2002, the Twins released him as a cost-cutting measure in 2003.
2003: Released by the Twins
In 2003, David Ortiz was released by the Minnesota Twins, marking a turning point in his career.
2004: Ortiz's Postseason Heroics Lead Red Sox to World Series Title
David Ortiz had an outstanding postseason performance in 2004, leading the Boston Red Sox to their first World Series title in 86 years. He hit multiple game-winning hits, including walk-off home runs in the ALCS against the New York Yankees, earning him ALCS MVP honors. In the World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, he continued his dominance, helping the Red Sox to a four-game sweep.
2004: First World Series Championship
David Ortiz played a key role in helping the Boston Red Sox break their 86-year World Series championship drought in 2004.
2004: Clutch Postseason Performances
In 2004, David Ortiz hit two crucial walk-off home runs during the postseason, including one that secured the American League Division Series victory for the Boston Red Sox.
2004: MLB Implements Drug Testing Program
In 2004, MLB introduced a formal drug testing program, marking a significant step in the league's efforts to address performance-enhancing drug use within the sport. David Ortiz consistently tested negative under this program throughout his career.
2004: Ortiz's Breakout Season with the Red Sox
Ortiz had a breakout year in 2004, hitting his 100th career home run, signing a contract extension, and earning his first All-Star selection. He finished the season with impressive stats, finishing second in the AL in home runs and RBIs, and earning his first Silver Slugger award. He also formed a formidable hitting duo with Manny Ramirez.
2004: Implementation of Permanent Drug Testing
Permanent drug testing was officially implemented in Major League Baseball in 2004.
2005: Ortiz's Career Year Leads Red Sox to Playoffs
David Ortiz had a career year in 2005, setting new personal bests with 47 home runs and 148 RBIs while leading the Boston Red Sox to their third straight playoff appearance. He was named an All-Star, won a Silver Slugger Award, and earned his first Hank Aaron Award as the AL's outstanding hitter. His clutch hitting throughout the season earned him recognition as the "greatest clutch-hitter in the history of the Boston Red Sox."
2006: Setting the Red Sox Single-Season Home Run Record
David Ortiz set a new record for the Boston Red Sox by hitting 54 home runs in a single season in 2006.
2006: Ortiz Breaks Red Sox Home Run Record
In 2006, David Ortiz signed a four-year contract extension with the Boston Red Sox and went on to have another historic season. He hit his 200th career home run and then proceeded to break Jimmie Foxx's single-season Red Sox home run record, set in 1938, by hitting 54 home runs. He also led the league in RBIs with 137.
April 2007: Reebok Debuts Big Papi 10M Mid Baseball Cleat
In April 2007, Reebok launched the Big Papi 10M Mid Baseball cleat, which Ortiz wore for the first time at the 2007 MLB All-Star Game in San Francisco.
2007: Establishment of David Ortiz Children's Fund
Ortiz established the David Ortiz Children's Fund in 2007 to support various causes he cares about and assist children in Boston, the Dominican Republic, and beyond.
2007: Last AL MVP Votes Before 2013
The year 2007 marked the last time Ortiz received votes for the AL MVP award until the 2013 season.
2007: Ortiz Continues Clutch Postseason Performance
David Ortiz continued his clutch hitting in the 2007 postseason. He hit well in the ALDS against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, the ALCS against the Cleveland Indians, and the World Series against the Colorado Rockies. His performance helped the Red Sox sweep the Rockies and win the World Series.
2007: Ortiz Plays First Base
In 2009, David Ortiz played first base for the first time since the 2007 season.
2007: Ortiz Leads Red Sox to Another World Series Title
David Ortiz was instrumental in leading the Boston Red Sox to their seventh World Series championship in 2007. He had another strong regular season, batting .332 with 35 home runs and 117 RBIs. He continued his clutch hitting in the postseason, helping the Red Sox win their second World Series in four years.
2007: Purchase of Weston Home
David Ortiz purchased an 8,100-square-foot home in Weston, Massachusetts in 2007.
2007: Second World Series Championship
David Ortiz and the Boston Red Sox won their second World Series championship in 2007.
June 11, 2008: Becoming a US Citizen
Ortiz became a United States citizen on June 11, 2008, in a ceremony at the John F. Kennedy Library in Boston.
2008: Decline in Performance
David Ortiz experienced a dip in his offensive production between 2008 and 2012.
2008: Ortiz Battles Wrist Injury, Red Sox Fall Short
David Ortiz's 2008 season was hampered by a wrist injury, limiting him to 109 games. He finished the season with 23 home runs and 89 RBIs while batting .264. He was named an All-Star but struggled in the playoffs as the Red Sox were eliminated in the AL Championship Series by the Tampa Bay Rays.
2008: Vintage Papi Wine Label
In 2008, David Ortiz allowed his likeness to be featured on a charity wine label called "Vintage Papi," with proceeds benefiting the Children's Fund.
July 30, 2009: Report of Positive Drug Test
The New York Times reported on July 30, 2009, citing anonymous sources, that David Ortiz was on a list of over 100 MLB players who allegedly tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs in 2003 during survey testing.
August 8, 2009: Ortiz Denies Steroid Use
David Ortiz held a press conference at Yankee Stadium on August 8, 2009, denying allegations of steroid use. He suggested that a positive test result might have been due to his use of supplements and vitamins.
October 2009: Opening of "Forty-Forty" Nightclub
David Ortiz opened a nightclub called "Forty-Forty" in his home country, the Dominican Republic, in October 2009.
2009: Ortiz Breaks Designated Hitter Home Run Record
David Ortiz struggled early in the 2009 season but found his groove later in the year. He hit his 300th career home run and broke Edgar Martinez's all-time record for home runs as a designated hitter. He finished the season with a .238 average, 28 home runs, and 99 RBIs.
April 2010: Trademark Infringement Lawsuit
Rapper Jay-Z and his business partner Juan Perez filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Ortiz in April 2010, claiming Ortiz stole the name of his nightclub from Jay-Z's chain of sports clubs in New York.
2010: Ortiz Wins Home Run Derby, Red Sox Miss Playoffs
David Ortiz had another slow start in 2010 but rebounded to hit 32 home runs with 102 RBIs. He won the Home Run Derby at the All-Star Game but the Red Sox finished third in the AL East and did not make the playoffs.
March 2011: Settlement with Jay-Z and Juan Perez
In March 2011, David Ortiz reached a settlement with Jay-Z and Juan Perez regarding the trademark infringement lawsuit.
2011: Record-Breaking Season and Accolades
David Ortiz had a remarkable season in 2011, achieving significant milestones. He set the record for RBIs by a designated hitter, surpassing Edgar Martínez, and became the fifth player to hit 300 home runs as a member of the Red Sox. He also earned his seventh All-Star selection, fifth Silver Slugger Award, and the Roberto Clemente Award. However, he was also involved in a brawl that led to a suspension.
2011: Red Sox Exercise Option on Ortiz's Contract
Despite David Ortiz's desire for a multi-year extension, the Red Sox decided to exercise the $12.5 million team option on his contract for 2011.
August 2012: Return from Achilles Tendon Injury
In August 2012, Ortiz returned to the Red Sox lineup after recovering from an Achilles tendon injury.
2012: Resurgence in Later Career
Following a decline in performance, David Ortiz mounted a strong comeback in his final four seasons, from 2012 to 2016.
2012: Contract Agreement and Preparation for the Season
Ortiz and the Red Sox agreed on a $14.575 million contract for the 2012 season, avoiding salary arbitration.
2012: 400th Home Run and Season-Ending Injury
Ortiz started 2012 strong, hitting his 400th career home run. However, he suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury in July, impacting the Red Sox's performance in his absence.
April 2013: Separation Announcement and Reconciliation
In April 2013, David Ortiz announced his separation from his wife, Tiffany. However, they later reconciled.
2013: Comeback Season and Memorable Speech
Ortiz had a strong comeback season in 2013, leading the Red Sox to an AL East title. He hit 30 home runs and 103 RBIs, and delivered a memorable speech after the Boston Marathon bombing, uniting the city.
2013: Third World Series Championship and World Series MVP
David Ortiz helped the Boston Red Sox secure their third World Series championship in 2013, earning the World Series Most Valuable Player award for his performance.
2013: Dugout Phone Incident with the Orioles
During a game in 2013, Ortiz destroyed a dugout phone with his bat during an outburst against the Baltimore Orioles. This incident was later referenced during his farewell tour.
March 23, 2014: Contract Extension with the Red Sox
Ortiz signed a one-year, $16 million contract extension with the Red Sox on March 23, 2014, with team options for 2015 and 2017.
November 18, 2015: Retirement Announcement
On his 40th birthday, Ortiz announced his plan to retire following the 2016 season.
2015: Continued Success and On-Field Incident
Ortiz continued his impressive form in 2015, hitting 35 home runs with 104 RBIs. However, he was also involved in an on-field incident with David Price, leading to both benches clearing.
2015: Consistent Performance
Ortiz maintained his high level of play in 2015, hitting 37 home runs and 108 RBIs, finishing in the AL's top 10 for both categories.
April 11, 2016: Alex Veda Sings at Red Sox Home Opener
David Ortiz's daughter, Alex Veda, sang the national anthem before the Boston Red Sox home opener on April 11, 2016.
October 2, 2016: MLB Commissioner Defends Ortiz Amidst Drug Test Controversy
On October 2, 2016, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred addressed allegations surrounding David Ortiz's alleged positive drug test in 2003. Manfred defended Ortiz, stating the test was inconclusive and emphasizing the availability of legal substances that could have led to a false positive. He highlighted Ortiz's clean record under MLB's testing program since 2004.
2016: Final Season Announcement
Ortiz announced that the 2016 season would be his last.
2016: Awards and Recognition
Ortiz received several awards and recognition for his outstanding 2016 season, including his second Hank Aaron Award, the Esurance MLB/This Year in Baseball Award for Best Hitter, and a sixth-place finish in AL MVP voting.
2016: Historic Final Season
In his final season, Ortiz had a remarkable year, hitting a record-breaking 38 home runs, the most by a player in their final season. He also led the league in several offensive categories, including OPS and slugging percentage.
2016: Retirement from Baseball
David Ortiz retired from professional baseball in 2016 after a successful 20-season career.
2016: David Ortiz Retires from MLB
David Ortiz played his last MLB game in 2016, marking the end of an era for the Boston Red Sox and baseball fans worldwide.
2016: UNICEF Kid Power Ambassador
David Ortiz joined UNICEF Kid Power as a brand ambassador and Kid Power Champion in 2016 for a global mission in Burkina Faso.
2016: Influencing Al Horford's Decision
A fan of the Boston Celtics, Ortiz played a role in convincing Dominican NBA player Al Horford to sign with the team in 2016.
October 2017: Joining MLB on Fox as Analyst
Ortiz began his broadcasting career in October 2017, joining MLB on Fox as a part-time analyst for the World Series.
2017: Roast for Charity
A roast held in honor of David Ortiz in 2017 raised $335,000 for his Children's Fund.
2017: Relocation to Miami
In 2017, David Ortiz, his wife Tiffany, and two of their children relocated to Miami.
2017: Number Retirement and Bridge Dedication
The Red Sox announced that they would retire Ortiz's number 34 during the 2017 season. Additionally, the bridge carrying Brookline Avenue over the Massachusetts Turnpike would be dedicated in his honor.
2017: Potential End of Contract
The year 2017 marked the potential end of Ortiz's contract extension with the Red Sox, signed in 2014.
2018: Podcast Host
In 2018, Ortiz hosted a podcast titled "David Ortiz: The Big Papi Story," which delved into his life and career over four episodes.
February 2019: Weston Home Listing
In February 2019, David Ortiz listed his 8,100-square-foot home in Weston, Massachusetts, for sale.
June 9, 2019: Shooting Incident
David Ortiz was critically injured in a shooting at the Dial Bar and Lounge in East Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, on June 9, 2019. He was shot in the back and underwent six hours of surgery.
June 2019: Transition to Full-Time Analyst
Following the June 2019 shootings, Ortiz returned to MLB on Fox as a full-time studio analyst.
July 26, 2019: Release from Hospital
David Ortiz was discharged from the hospital on July 26, 2019, after undergoing a third surgery.
July 29, 2019: Positive Update on Recovery
Ortiz's spokesperson released a statement on July 29, 2019, indicating that "Big Papi will be back soon," signaling positive progress in his recovery.
May 21, 2020: Restraining Order Issued
Fary Almanzar Fernandez, the mother of Ortiz's firstborn son, obtained a restraining order against him on May 21, 2020, prohibiting him from contacting or approaching her.
November 22, 2021: David Ortiz Nominated for Baseball Hall of Fame
On November 22, 2021, David Ortiz's name appeared on the ballot for the National Baseball Hall of Fame for the first time, marking a significant milestone in his career.
December 2021: Second Separation
Tiffany announced on Instagram in December 2021 that she and David Ortiz had separated again.
2021: FTX Spokesperson
David Ortiz served as a paid spokesperson for FTX, a cryptocurrency exchange, in 2021.
January 25, 2022: David Ortiz Elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame
On January 25, 2022, David Ortiz achieved one of baseball's highest honors as he was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as one of the game's greats.
March 19, 2022: New Details Emerge About the Shooting
The Boston Globe reported on March 19, 2022, that Ed Davis, a former Boston Police Commissioner hired by Ortiz to conduct an independent investigation into the shooting, revealed that drug kingpin César "The Abuser" Peralta had put a bounty on Ortiz, contradicting the official account of the incident.
July 2022: Launch of "Papi Cannabis"
David Ortiz introduced his "Papi Cannabis" line of cannabis products in July 2022, collaborating with Rev Brands.
July 24, 2022: Alex Veda Performs at Hall of Fame Induction
Alex Veda, David Ortiz's daughter, sang the national anthem at his National Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony on July 24, 2022.
November 2022: FTX Bankruptcy and Class-Action Lawsuit
FTX, a cryptocurrency exchange for which Ortiz was a paid spokesperson, filed for bankruptcy in November 2022. Ortiz and other spokespeople are currently facing a class-action lawsuit for promoting unregistered securities.
2022: Induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame
David Ortiz was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2022, his first year of eligibility.