Report: David Ortiz Plans on Returning to Red Sox Next Season

The first puzzle piece of the Red Sox’ offseason may be falling into place.

According to NESN sources, designated hitter David Ortiz says he plans on returning to Boston next season. 

While the subject of a contract became somewhat touchy with Ortiz toward the end of the 2010 season, the power hitter said the deal with the Red Sox “will be done soon.”

Signing Ortiz is the first of many projects for the Red Sox front office this season, as the contracts of Adrian Beltre and Victor Martinez still linger for the near future.

Ortiz has a $12.5 million option with Boston for the 2011 season, but it has not been disclosed whether or not the Red Sox have opted for that choice, or have negotiated for a different salary.