David Ortiz Wins His First Home Run Derby
In a competition that saw many new faces take centre stage, it was a familiar name that came up on top at the State Farm Home Run Derby on Monday night. It took Boston slugger David Ortiz four tries to advance to the final round of the Derby, which took place in Anaheim at Angel Stadium.
But once he finally did, he put on a show and made sure not to disappoint an enthusiastic crowd, winning his first derby title. This seems to prove that veteran leadership combined with a “been there, done that” approach, will overcome a high level of energy and nerves, which most of the young guys seemed to display during this event.
"[I'm] too old doing this," Ortiz joked afterwards on RDS. "It was good that they put me towards the end, because I get tired pretty easy when I hit and shut it down for a while. I think that whoever puts the best swing [on it], wins it. I have seen a lot of guys do it for the first time, and they walk away with that right there. So I think whoever plays the best in the night is the one getting it done.”
The six-time All-Star was clearly the best man on that night finishing with a total of 32 home runs including 11 in the final round, becoming the first Red Sox player to earn the distinction of Derby champion. He can now add the trophy with the image of two crossed bats to his collection.
Yesterday’s performance lists him in second place all-time with 68 career Derby homers. Ortiz is in good company and tied with Jason Giambi at 68, while Ken Griffey Jr., an eight-time participant, tops the list with 74.
Ortiz slowly shook off some rust and started getting into a groove hitting 21 homers in the first two rounds. The Dominican slugger and power hitter credited his early success to his fourth appearance at this event. Not taking anything for granted and appreciative of his current situation, Ortiz told NBC: "I've been dealing with so many things the past few years. Coming back here (to another all-star game), I want to thank the players for giving me the opportunity to be here. This is a job that we have, but it's called a game. That's what I try to do during the season - have fun with my team mates and make sure everything goes the right way."
Florida shortstop, Hanley Ramirez was the runner-up and spoke fondly of his friend and the man who beat him in an entertaining final.
"He's one of the best [people] I've ever met in my life. I know he's going to come back and do what he gets paid to do - hit bombs," Ramirez said to the Associated Press. Both players go way back, having played with the Red Sox organization before Ramirez was traded to Florida. He has been a solid addition to the club and missed by Boston.
The Red Sox organization and all those who fill up Fenway Park and follow this organization religiously are hoping that Ortiz will come full circle and continue to be a dominating force in Major League Baseball, as shown in previous years. Despite his age, Ortiz certainly has all the attributes that one looks for in a franchise player along with the veteran leadership.
Milwaukee's Corey Hart and Detroit’s Miguel Cabrera did not make it past the first round. Hart was surprised after sending 13 balls over the fence in the opening round, but came out flat to begin the second. However, both gained valuable experience with a first row seat to Ortiz’s power hitting. Although this is a friendly competition, these athletes are extremely competitive and want to win for bragging rights.
Tags: