Red Sox slugger David Ortiz, who has been battling heel issues since last season, is ready to return to the big leagues according to manager John Farrell.
"He feels good about where he's at and all things point to his return tomorrow when we get home from this trip," Farrell said. Ortiz, affectionately called "Big Papi" in Boston, began the season on the disabled list and has just completed a five-game rehab stint in Pawtucket, in which he recorded four hits. He also hit a home run in last night's game.
When he was able to play last season, Ortiz was a force at the plate. He batted .318 with 23 home runs and 60 RBI in 90 games. "Having his presence in the middle of the order certainly speaks for itself, for the number of years and success he's had," Farrell said, "but I think he gives us the potential to lengthen our lineup even more, and we're certainly looking forward to seeing him in the clubhouse tomorrow."
Without Ortiz, the Red Sox are 11-4 and riding a six-game winning streak. They sit two and a half games ahead of the New York Yankees in the American League East and that success will allow Ortiz to ease his way back into big league action.
"That's less pressure for me," Ortiz told the Providence Journal. "Now I know I can take my time to do my thing and work into that good funk, not trying to do too much or trying to carry the team on my back. The team is playing well. Hopefully it continues. That would make it easier on me."
Farrell praised the effort of his team in Ortiz' absence as well. Boston was predicted by many to finish last in the American League East, and their early success has been surprising. "I can't say enough about the way we've played defense, the way we've pitched. We've scored runs in bunches at times, and yet we've scored some timely runs to lop a couple games off as we get guys back to us."
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