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David Ortiz Sheds Walking Boot, Says He’s ‘Going to the Moon’ In Batting Practice

NEW YORK –– The walking boot is off and David Ortiz is making strides.

Sidelined with a right Achilles injury since July 17, the Red Sox designated hitter shed the protective boot on Thursday and took batting practice before Friday's game against the Yankees.

"I'm going all in," Ortiz said. "I'm going to the moon…It's been a slow process. It's something you just need some time off. So, probably when I get back I'll probably have to deal with those up and down days. It's fixable, it just needs some time off."

During the session, batting practice pitcher and coach Ino Guerrero tossed the pitches to Ortiz. The slugger joked that Guerrero was throwing 30 mph cutters to him to work him into shape.

For now, Ortiz is optimistic about his progress.

"Every day for me it has been improving," Ortiz said. "We'll see. If I'm ready to go, I'm ready to go. I want to play."

Since Ortiz went down, the Red Sox have gone 3-5. In 89 games this season, the designated hitter has keyed the club's offense, unloading 23 home runs and 58 RBIs while hitting .316.

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