Big Papi's Son Gets First Spring Training Hit with Red Sox

Twenty-one-year-old D'Angelo Ortiz stepped into the batter's box Friday and did what his Hall of Fame father made look routine for 20 seasons: he got a hit for the Boston Red Sox.

Facing Tampa Bay reliever Luis Guerrero in Port Charlotte, the younger Ortiz worked the count to 1-2 before slapping a sweeper into right field for a single. It was his first career Spring Training at-bat, coming exactly 10 years after Big Papi hung up his cleats.

"Amazing, that was amazing," D'Angelo told reporters after the game, wearing number 44. "It was definitely exciting to get out there and get that hit. That was really special."

The moment came after two rainouts that left the young first baseman waiting for his chance. He was supposed to enter as a defensive replacement on March 7, but heavy rain canceled the final three innings. A week later, another washout denied him again.

When his opportunity finally arrived Friday, D'Angelo made it count with a slight fist pump as he reached first base. The satisfaction on his face told the whole story.

His father, who works as a Red Sox ambassador and FOX broadcaster, better have been watching. "I haven't touched my phone yet," D'Angelo joked. "Hopefully he was watching. If he wasn't watching, we've got a problem."

Sunny's Take

What makes this story shine isn't just the famous last name. D'Angelo was a 19th-round draft pick in 2024 and isn't considered a top prospect. But his relentless work ethic mirrors his father's journey, and he's determined to earn his own spot in the majors.

Rays manager Kevin Cash, who won a World Series alongside David Ortiz in 2007, watched from the opposing dugout. "That's pretty cool," Cash said, remembering when D'Angelo was just 2 years old running around the clubhouse. "I saw him running around for many years. Not surprised he's here."

Red Sox manager Alex Cora felt the weight of time passing, seeing the sons of David Ortiz, Manny Ramirez, and Gary Sheffield now pursuing their own baseball dreams. "It's like, wow, I'm 50," he laughed.

D'Angelo knows this single is just one small step toward his dream, but it's a step he earned through dedication and talent.