BOSTON –– The second opinion confirmed David Ortiz's fear.
While he wanted to avoid a stint on the disabled list, the MRI revealed that rest was necessary for a strained right Achilles. Ironically, Ortiz received the opinion from Miami Heat team physician Dr. Harlan Selesnick.
"Of course I want to be on the field, like usual,'' Ortiz said. "But those things I can't really control. That's part of it. I'm a little frustrated, I'm not going to lie to you, especially with having some guys coming back and the way things are going.''
The decision to visit Selesnick in Miami was fueled by the Red Sox designated hitter's agent's relationship with Miami Heat CEO Nick Arison, also the son of team owner Micky Arison.
But Ortiz doesn't want to lose the consistency that comes with his swing. As a result, the 36-year-old disclosed his plan to start taking hacks in the batting cage on Friday –– with his walking boot.
"I've been feeling better everyday," Ortiz said. "Less sore… just wait until I get better and come back to action. You just want to make sure that I get the best of the best out of it. I should be able to get back on the field as fast I can. When I'm ready to go."
Through 89 games this season, the slugger has unloaded 23 home runs and 58 RBIs to go with a .316 batting average.
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