David Ortiz’s career is winding down, which means we need to cherish the memories the Boston Red Sox designated hitter has provided us with over the years.
NESN’s first special presentation celebrating Ortiz’s illustrious run in Major League Baseball will premiere Friday night at 10 p.m. ET, immediately following the network’s coverage of the Red Sox’s game against the New York Yankees.
The film, “David Ortiz: The Journey,” presented by Foxwoods Resort Casino, is a firsthand interview documentary that takes an introspective look at Big Papi’s extraordinary career. It features exclusive commentary from Ortiz about his tough upbringing in the Dominican Republic, his early days with the Minnesota Twins, his meteoric rise with the Red Sox, his relationship with teammates (past and present) and his lasting impact on the city of Boston.
NESN also sat down with Ortiz’s teammates (past and present), those who have covered Big Papi and even a notable Yankees opponent while producing its one-hour special. All provided intriguing insight into just how important Ortiz has been to Boston, both on and off the field.
Now, we’re obviously not going to spoil anything — why would we? — but there are some very cool things you’ll learn by watching “David Ortiz: The Journey.” For example …
— How does Ortiz stay calm under pressure in huge moments?
— What’s one of the most important things Ortiz has learned throughout his career?
— Who has influenced Ortiz most?
— Why does Ortiz point to the sky when crossing the plate after home runs?
— How did Ortiz resurrect his career after starting slow in 2009?
— What key piece of advice did Jason Varitek give Ortiz that changed his career?
— What was going through Ortiz’s mind during his “This is our (expletive) city” speech and his World Series dugout speech in 2013?
— Which current Red Sox player could be handed the torch passed on by Ortiz?
— What does Ortiz want his legacy to be?
All of that is just a sample of what’s included in NESN’s “David Ortiz: The Journey,” which you won’t want to miss as Big Papi prepares to ride off into the sunset after this season.
Thumbnail photo via Jake Roth/USA TODAY Sports Images
