David Ortiz
The panel also is responsible for selecting a “Memorable Moment” in Red Sox history, which this year went to David Ortiz for his grand slam in Game 2 of the 2013 ALCS against the Detroit Tigers.
Ortiz stepped to the plate with two outs in the 8th inning, bases loaded with the Red Sox trailing 5-1. Tigers reliever
Joaquin Benoitfired a fastball that caught too much of the plate and Big Papi made him pay, blasting a shot to right field that narrowly sailed over the outstretched glove of
Torii Hunterjust before the Tigers outfielder tumbled over the wall and into the bullpen.
The image would later be captured of Hunter’s legs up in the air, with Boston police officer Steve Horgan raising his arms in celebration behind him in the bullpen.
The Red Sox would go on to win the game in the 9th inning to even the series, which they eventually won in six games before advancing to the World Series, where they defeated the St. Louis Cardinals to capture their third title in ten seasons.
With Ortiz playing out the final season of his epic career, it won’t be long before we see him inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame. In the meantime, he can take satisfaction in one of the most memorable moments of his career getting the recognition it deserves.