In a stunning and emotional turn of events for Red Sox Nation, the Boston Red Sox have announced that franchise legend David Ortiz, affectionately known as “Big Papi,” is officially returning to the team—not as a player, but as a co-owner.
Red Sox principal owner John W. Henry made the announcement earlier today, confirming that Ortiz will join the team’s ownership group beginning in the 2025 season. The move marks a historic moment not only for the Red Sox organization but also for Major League Baseball, as Ortiz becomes one of the few former players—and one of the most iconic Latino figures in the game’s history—to hold an ownership stake in a major league franchise.
> “David Ortiz is more than a Red Sox legend—he’s the heart and soul of Boston,” said Henry in a press conference at Fenway Park. “We are proud to welcome him back in this new capacity, where his leadership, passion, and deep connection with the community will continue to shape the future of this franchise.”
Ortiz, who played 14 seasons with the Red Sox, was instrumental in ending the team’s 86-year World Series drought in 2004, and later helped secure championships in 2007 and 2013. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2022, his return as co-owner brings his relationship with the team full circle.
> “This team gave me everything, and I gave everything I had back,” Ortiz said. “Now, I get to be part of building its future. This is for the city, for the fans, and for every kid who dreams big.”
While specific details of Ortiz’s ownership role and responsibilities were not disclosed, sources indicate he will be actively involved in community outreach, player development initiatives, and long-term strategic planning.
The announcement has already sparked widespread excitement across Boston and the baseball world, with fans, former teammates, and MLB figures expressing joy over Ortiz’s return in a leadership role.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for more updates as Big Papi begins his next chapter with t
he Boston Red Sox.
