In similar fashion to what former Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant received after announcing his retirement, Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz has been the center of a farewell tour this season.
Unlike Bryant, Ortiz announced his intention to retire prior to the 2016 season. It’s an announcement Ortiz has since said he’s come to regret due to the attention it’s garnered. The 40-year-old got off to a hot start this season, which prompted some to question his forthcoming retirement.
Ortiz has remained completely confident in that decision, citing the amount of pain he’s in. With Ortiz and the Red Sox in town for a three-game series, the Los Angeles Dodgers honored the 10-time All-Star with a pregame ceremony.
Ortiz was joined on the field by former teammates Nomar Garciaparra, Adrian Gonzalez and Dave Roberts. The ceremony began with Dodgers Hall of Fame announcer Vin Scully narrating a video, which is provided via the club’s Twitter account:
Prior to tonight's game, the #Dodgers honored @davidortiz on his career and his final visit to Dodger Stadium.https://t.co/JdBgooI9Xq
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) August 6, 2016
The Dodgers presented the charitable Ortiz with a $10,000 donation to the David Ortiz Children’s Fund. The donation was matched by Dodgers first baseman Adrian Gonzalez and his wife, Betsy. Additional Information on Ortiz’s foundation can be found here.
