Ortiz Slumping But Have No Fear. History is On Our Side.

David Ortiz has hit a slump. It happens to players. It’s magnified based on the timing of the dip and the moments in which it happens.

Aug 28, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) strikes out with bases loaded in the third inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Ortiz left men on base last night against the Baltimore Orioles in critical situations, one time striking out in a big fat way against Bud Norris with the bases loaded.

Is he in a slump? Yes, for sure that can be said. Will it last? Based on past history the answer is no. He is, however, looking alternately tentative and reckless depending on his mood. Papi is all about getting in grooves and riding the crest of the wave. Over the past week he’s had two wheels in the ditch.

Luckily, his decreased production has been offset by others on the team going nuts so it hasn’t felt so bad but they need him down the stretch and it’s actually good that he’s skidding in late August. Over the past week Dustin Pedroia has hit .550 with five RBI, Shane Victorino has hit .421 and a reborn Mike Napoli after a five-day layoff, has surged with a .400 batting average and five RBI.

Even Johnny Gomes, who has hit a limp .188 in the last seven days, has made a major contribution with seven RBI, second only to Victorino’s nine RBI.

At .316 Ortiz is still one of the most dangerous designated hitters in the game. Of the top three designated hitters, Ortiz is far ahead of the Royals Billy Butler (.296, 67 RBI as opposed to Ortiz’ .316, 79 RBI) and Detroit’s Victor Martinez (.290, 70 RBI). In the second half of the season at .312, Ortiz is down only five points from his pre-All Star game pace of .317.

All is well Nation. Papi will be there when it counts. He is, after all, one of the most clutch big game players when it counts in MLB history. But let’s get it going soon big guy.