Ortiz Says Red Sox 'Won't Regret' Re-Signing Him
BOSTON (CBS) – New Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington said in his introductory press conference he would like to bring back soon-to-be free agent David Ortiz.
That makes Ortiz a happy man.
"Great," Ortiz told ESPN Boston's Joe McDonald about Cherington's comment. "I would never try to do anything to hurt the organization. This organization, I hope I don't have to go anywhere else. Playing for the Red Sox you have to be proud of it and I'm proud to play for the Red Sox. My agent was there and he let them know how I feel. We'll see."
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Ortiz is looking for a new contract, likely a two-year deal, after hitting 29 home runs and driving in 96 runs in 2011. Cherington said on Tuesday the team has had preliminary talks with both Ortiz and closer Jonathan Papelbon about new deals.
The Sox DH is promising more of the same if the team retains his services.
"If the Red Sox sign me right now they won't regret (it)," Ortiz said. "I've got so many ways to keep doing what I've been doing around here. I bring so much to this organization, I bring so much to the table here because I care so much about this organization."
"My priority is to make the Red Sox win," he said. "I care about winning and the Red Sox are a great organization. I want to win another championship."
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Ortiz said after a 31 save season, the Red Sox should do all they can to bring Papelbon back long-term.
"I think they should sign Papelbon to a four-year deal," Ortiz said of the Sox closer. "This guy has no fear. There are closers who come into some situations against some teams and they want no part of it. Papelbon, you will never see fear in this guy's face. This guy is legit, dude."
