Papi signs on ‘forever’
Big deal for retired slugger
RED SOX NOTEBOOK
Did anyone really think David Ortiz was going to fade quietly into baseball history, never to be heard from again?
Just in case, the Red Sox yesterday signed Ortiz to a long-term agreement that will have the 10-time All-Star serve “forever” as organizational mentor, ambassador and recruiter. He’ll also work in a “business development capacity” with Fenway Sports Management.
Although the Sox called the deal “unprecedented,” it seems at least vaguely similar to the special assistant roles of Pedro Martinez and Jason Varitek. Ortiz already had his No. 34 retired earlier this season.
“His place in this organization speaks for itself,” manager John Farrell said before last night’s 7-3 loss. “Any time players have had that kind of success and what he’s meant to the city, the organization, to keep him around, to keep him involved — much like Pedro, much like Tek — there’s a lot to be gained from their experiences. A big personality and a big presence when he is involved in an event or project whatever it might be. Nothing but positives in terms of him staying connected to the Red Sox.”
In a team release, owner John Henry referred to Ortiz as “family” and chairman Tom Werner touted Ortiz’ “wisdom, experience, and character that has lifted this club time and again.”
Also in a released statement, Ortiz seemed to outline a few details of what exactly he’ll be doing for the team.
“I’m happy to be able to help the Red Sox organization I love in any way I can,” Ortiz said. “Whether that’s offering advice to a young player, helping convince a free agent that there’s no better city to play in than Boston, or representing the club in the community and with its partners, it’s great to be part of the Red Sox organization. It feels like I never left.”
In his first year of retirement, Ortiz was already serving as a kind of unofficial advisor.
“There’s been a couple times I’ve reached out to him this year on some things,” Farrell said. “As there has been with Tek and Pedro. You’d be foolish not to tap into their experience and include them when you see their ability or see an opportunity for them to make an impact. So, glad he’s going to be here and hope to include him in some player aspects as we go forward.”
Tribe impresses
Three weeks ago, the Red Sox won a game in Cleveland, and the Indians haven’t lost since. The AL Central leaders’ winning streak reached 21 games, setting an American League record.
“Put any adjective you want to it, it’s incredible what they’re doing,” Farrell said. “And they haven’t done it the same way every night. The one common thread is the consistent pitching they’re getting. I think it’s now 19 out of 21 games where starters are recording wins. That speaks volumes in and of itself.”
Farrell, who said he had not reached out to Indians counterpart and former Red Sox manager Terry Francona during the streak, was asked how it felt to be the last team to beat Cleveland.
“That was 21 games ago,” Farrell said. “That seems like an eternity.” . . .
The swelling in infielder Eduardo Nunez’ strained right knee diminished, which was a positive sign.
“The range of motion has returned, but as far as baseball activities we won’t first approach that until the weekend,” Farrell said. …
After showing recent signs of breaking out of his offensive slump, shortstop Xander Bogaerts was in the leadoff spot against the Oakland A’s.
“Can’t overstate his importance to us,” Farrell said.
Game on in Florida
Just days after Florida was ravaged by Hurricane Irma, the Tampa Bay Rays announced that they will, in fact, reopen Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg tomorrow night to host a three-game series against the Red Sox.
The Rays wrapped up a “home” series in New York against the Yankees at the Mets’ Citi Field.
“Everything points to (playing) as scheduled,” Farrell said. “So, we’ll travel (after tonight’s game).” . . .
Pitcher David Price was named the Red Sox nominee for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year, which honors a player’s community contributions.
“It feels good to have stuff that you do away from the game of baseball to be recognized,” Price said.