Big Papi Out-Duels Hanley Ramirez for Home Run Derby Title

After a April to forget in which fans were calling for his release, Big Papi David Ortiz wins the 2010 Home Run Derby title. Papi was consistently strong through all 3 rounds, hitting 8 in the 1st, 13 in the 2nd and a whopping 11 in the final round, tying Bobby Abreu for the final round record. The final 2 were an interesting pair of Dominican natives, because Hanley Ramirez looked up to David Ortiz when he was in the Red Sox system several years ago. The mentee/mentor match-up and friendship created an added level of fun to the final round.

Papi crushed the ball, hitting his home runs an average of 416 feet with his long going 478. Being the most experienced member of the  Derby roster was apparently an advantage, even though he was not terribly successful in his previous few appearances. Overall, the Derby was lacking any crazy high round totals, but provided it’s usual fun-loving atmosphere with the players kids looking on in amazement.

On a personal note, it is tough to not be happy for Big Papi after he was awarded the trophy. He has gone through a ton over the last few years with early season slumps and people writing him off as being finished in baseball. This was certainly a title that was all about redemption for the big slugger, whether he admits it or not. Congrats Papi, you deserve it…please just continue to hit jacks in the 2nd half of the season.