Boston Red Sox legend David Ortiz has a friendly bet going with former Yankee Alex Rodriguez over the outcome of the ALDS.
David Ortiz had many classic battles on the field with Alex Rodriguez over the course of their careers. As the Boston Red Sox prepare to meet the New York Yankees in the postseason, the pair of future Hall of Famers remain on opposite sides.
The retired superstars now work together in the Fox Sports studio where they previewed the upcoming American League Division Series between the AL East rivals. To the surprise of no one, Ortiz is backing the Red Sox while A-Rod is picking the Yankees to win the series.
This marks the first time since 2004 that these teams will meet on the postseason stage. Ortiz and Rodriguez were both a significant part of that historic series, which saw Boston climb out of an 0-3 hole to defeat New York in the ALCS. The Red Sox would then go on to win the franchise’s first championship in 86 years.
Big Papi couldn’t resist rubbing that success in A-Rod’s face, pulling out a case full of rings during the segment to serve as a reminder of his accomplishments. Three World Series rings plus another for being named World Series MVP.
https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/1047941792694321152
Ortiz claims his connection to the organization will earn him another ring if the Red Sox win again this year. He’s aiming for a fifth ring to put on his thumb. Any more jewelry and Ortiz may need a gauntlet to contain them all. His quest for rings is as determined as Thanos chasing infinity stones. Not even retirement can keep Ortiz from adding to his collection.
The conversation would lead to these former rivals placing a friendly bet. If Boston wins the ALDS, A-Rod will be forced to wear a Red Sox uniform on the show. If New York wins, Ortiz will put on a Yankees uniform.
2018 ALDS: @Yankees vs. @RedSox@AROD and @davidortiz breakdown (and make a bet on) the upcoming series! pic.twitter.com/z6oIQOCsHI
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) October 4, 2018
Rodriguez donning a Red Sox jersey would be an interesting sight to behold. Hey, it almost happened back in 2003 when Boston had a blockbuster deal lined up with the Texas Rangers that would have shipped Manny Ramirez and Nomar Garciaparra out of town and brought A-Rod to Boston. The trade fell apart and Rodriguez was dealt to the Yankees instead, where he became a villain in Boston instead of their savior.
Ultimately it worked out just fine for the Red Sox, thanks in part to Ortiz. The thought of Big Papi wearing pinstripes is downright terrifying. Even if it’s only part of a bet.
Game 1 of the best-of-five series kicks off Friday night at 7:32 p.m. ET. There’s a lot on the line for the players on both teams with the chance to advance to the ALCS. Apparently, there’s a lot on the line for two former players as well.