The decision, first reported by ESPN.com’s Gordon Edes, means that Ortiz will be back in Boston for at least the 2012 season. MLB.com’s Ian Browne reported that the two sides planned on working toward an extension for Ortiz that would keep him in Boston through 2013.
Ortiz is expected to make in the neighborhood of $14 million in 2012 after making $12.5 million last year.
The 36-year-old had arguably his best season since 2007 this past season. Ortiz hit .309 — hitting .329 against left-handers — with 29 home runs and 96 RBIs. The slugger also posted a .957 OPS, his best since 2007.
