What will 2010 hold for David Ortiz / Big Papi? Don't look for any signs in Spring Training.
2008 was an injury-plagued year with the wrist. Big Papi could not help in the ALDS against the Rays. Francona said that, even though Ortiz was not at 100%, he was still a bat to be reckoned with in the lineup. No question. He did & still does have an intimidating personna when stepping into the batter's box. He is a presence.
2009 was a half-year sprint in the middle of the season. After a 2-month horrible start in April & May Big Papi put together 3 good months in June, July & August. He would not be a force in the playoffs against the Angels, but finished the regular season just 1 RBI short of 100 for the season. A decent year, all things considered.
What to expect from David in 2010? It's a contract year, so motivation is there. There is talk of split DH time with Mike Lowell. I think the first month of April may set the stage for the Sox to explore options at DH as the year progresses. Francona is so loyal to his players that he will give Big Papi every chance to succeed. Look for a definite plan at DH to emerge by the end of May - especially if Ortiz is not productive by then.
I think Ortiz will be on a shorter rope to produce this year. What do you think?
1 comment:
Unfortunately I just have this pesimistic view of this upcoming year. I hate to have two guys (Ortiz and Lowell) doing half a job, such as DH'ing. Due to injury though I think this may be the best solution for keeping them both healthy but with more limited playing time will either guy be able to get on and stay on a streak?
I'm looking forward to no WBC and some spring training games to get a feel for this team.
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