Sox, Ortiz To Sign Two-Year $26 Million Deal

Quashing a potential negotiation between David Ortiz and the Texas Rangers, the Red Sox have reportedly come to terms with their DH for a two-year, $26 million deal. Additional incentives could possibly push Ortiz’ total package to $30 million. The reported agreement comes just hours before the MLB free agency shopping bonanza begins just after the clock turns 12:01 Saturday.

Looks like the Big Man will be back bashing in Boston. Credit: Bob DeChiara-US PRESSWIRE

Earlier in the day, sources reported – The Bleacher Report among them – that Texas was interested in Ortiz as an offensive replacement for Josh Hamilton, who is headed toward certain free agency.

Intellectualizing that Ortiz may not have been with the Red Sox in 2013 was a lot different than viscerally reacting to the Rangers news earlier in the day. Ortiz in a Rangers uniform? Come on man! Big Papi, one of the most consistent hitters in the majors over the last decade, has hit at least 20 homers in every season and has driven in at least 100 runs six times.

With the retirement of Jason Varitek and Tim Wakefield, Ortiz has become the de facto senior statesman on the club. He’s great PR, a solid role model and community member. He’s the founder of  David Ortiz Children’s Fund, releasing his own charity wine label, Vintage Papi, in 2008, the proceeds of which go the Children’s Fund. If the deal is indeed consummated Red Sox fans can hope for an encore performance of more vintage Papi.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Find out what it means to me
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Take care, TCB
– Respect, Aretha Franklin