Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, is home to some of the greatest baseball history of all time. This iconic venue featuring the so-called “Green Monster” in left field has also served as the stomping ground for multiple baseball legends. From the great Babe Ruth, to Cy Young, and finally Pedro Martinez, the amount of talent that has come in and gone through the gates of Fenway is remarkable. As much as Red Sox fans hate to see it, this list of retired Boston legends will gain the name of one beloved player after the 2016 season. David “Big Papi” Ortiz announced his retirement towards the beginning of this baseball season and his farewell tour has been one for the books. The once first baseman now turned designated hitter can slug a baseball with the best of them. The 10-time all star also obtained a plethora of achievements during his career. With 541 homeruns and close to 1,800 RBI’s, Papi’s offensive power has entertained major league fans for the last twenty years.

Let’s take a look at some of Ortiz’s most memorable moments during his time in Boston. First, Red Sox fans will never forget the 2004 ALDS when Big Papi delivered an extra inning home run to not only win the game but also clinch the series against the Angels. Or how about the 2006 season when Ortiz launched 54 home runs for a new franchise record. However, Papi’s career highlight came from his game-tying grand slam in the 2013 ALCS against the tigers which shifted the entire series.  

Yet, what will the 2017 season feel like for Boston fans who will no longer be hearing Ortiz’s name in the lineup? Different, to say the least, could be an understatement. No player will ever be able to conquer what Papi did in Boston. His ability to impact the entire city through his actions on and off the field contribute to the legacy he is bound to leave. Although fans will never forget Ortiz and all his iconic performances, the Red Sox organization has recently announced the retirement of his jersey. So now when the younger generation of today grows up and finds themselves wondering who the great number 34 for Boston was, the stories told will serve as Big Papi’s everlasting connection to the great game of baseball.