David Ortiz’s career is over.
The Indians defeated the Red Sox 4-3 on Monday in Game 3 of the American League Division Series at Fenway Park, ending Boston’s 2016 season and punching Cleveland’s ticket to the ALCS. For Red Sox fans, Boston’s loss was unlike any before, as it marked the conclusion of Big Papi’s farewell tour.
The Fenway Faithful chanted “Papi! Papi! Papi” as the Indians celebrated their series victory on the infield. Minutes later, hardly anyone had left their seats, and chants of “Thank you, Papi!” rang out in the hopes that Boston’s legendary designated hitter would emerge from the dugout one last time.
Sure enough, Ortiz came back out onto the field for a final curtain call.
Ortiz’s eyes welled up as he stepped onto the pitcher’s mound and tipped his cap. Red Sox Nation was able to show its love for Ortiz, and the slugger’s emotional farewell suggests the love isn’t just mutual; it’s also forever.
Thumbnail photo via Bob DeChiara/USA TODAY Sports Images
