David Ortiz, affectionately known as "Big Papi," became one of the most beloved figures in Major League Baseball during his career. Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Ortiz began his professional journey when he signed with the Seattle Mariners in 1992. However, it was with the Minnesota Twins that he made his MLB debut in 1997. During his time with the Twins, Ortiz showed flashes of his potential but struggled with injuries and inconsistency, which led to his release in 2002.

The turning point in Ortiz's career came when he signed with the Boston Red Sox in 2003. In Boston, Ortiz transformed into one of the most feared hitters in the game. His powerful left-handed swing and ability to deliver in clutch situations quickly endeared him to Red Sox fans. Ortiz's presence in the lineup was instrumental in breaking the "Curse of the Bambino" as the Red Sox won the World Series in 2004, their first championship in 86 years. His performance in the postseason, particularly his walk-off hits in the ALCS against the New York Yankees, cemented his status as a hero in Boston.

Ortiz continued to be a cornerstone of the Red Sox lineup for over a decade. He played a vital role in the team's subsequent World Series victories in 2007 and 2013. In the 2013 World Series, Ortiz's performance was nothing short of spectacular, earning him the World Series MVP award. He batted .688 with two home runs and six RBIs, leading the Red Sox to victory over the St. Louis Cardinals.

Throughout his career, Ortiz was known for his ability to perform under pressure. He hit 541 home runs, drove in 1,768 runs, and maintained a .286 batting average over his 20-year career. Ortiz was a ten-time All-Star and won seven Silver Slugger Awards, recognizing him as one of the best offensive players at his position.

Off the field, Ortiz was known for his charismatic personality and leadership qualities. He was a mentor to younger players and a respected figure in the clubhouse. His influence extended beyond baseball, as he was actively involved in charitable work, particularly through his David Ortiz Children's Fund, which provides critical pediatric services in the Dominican Republic and New England.

Ortiz's career was not without controversy. In 2009, his name was reportedly on a list of players who tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs in 2003. Ortiz denied knowingly using any banned substances, and the issue did not significantly tarnish his reputation.

In 2016, Ortiz announced his retirement from baseball. His final season was a testament to his enduring talent, as he led the league in several offensive categories and helped the Red Sox reach the postseason. Ortiz's farewell tour was celebrated across the league, with fans and teams honoring his contributions to the game.

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