David Ortiz celebrating his hall of fame election. Jan. 25. Photo by David Ortiz Children’s Fund.
Byline: Brandon Ramos, Staff Writer.
David Ortiz was elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame becoming the fourth Dominican-born player to be forever enshrined in the halls of baseball history. David Ortiz joins the less than 10% of inductees into the Hall of Fame that are Latino. Ortiz leaves a lasting influence on the CSUDH community that has over a 60% Latino population.
Over his 20 year career “Big Papi” became a legend in Boston by setting numerous records and helping the Red Sox claim world series championships on three occasions (2004, 2007, 2013).
He was a ten-time All-star, seven-time Silver Slugger award winner (given to the best offensive player in a season), and the 2013 world series MVP (Most Valuable Player). He also holds the Red Sox record for most home runs hit in a single season with 54 which he set during 2006.
Outside of baseball David Ortiz has made a larger than life contribution to those in need in his home country of the Dominican Republic and in New England here in the U.S. For example, The David Ortiz Children’s Fund helps children suffering heart diseases by paying for surgeries and offering screenings.
His career inspired many aspiring baseball players and gave them a role model to look up to in the major leagues. Nate Ortiz, a pitcher for the CSU Dominguez Hills baseball team, saw him as a rival but still admired his qualities.
“As a Yankees fan I respected him and took away his great leadership,” said Ortiz. “I liked how he showed that the color of your skin didn’t matter because everyone can do the same thing.”
David Ortiz established himself as a baseball player that was proud of being a minority in a sport that has a majority of caucasian players.
Kevin Moscoso, an outfielder for the CSU Dominguez Hills baseball team, saw Ortiz as a pioneer in baseball. “He inspired me that hitting can take you a long way, ” said Moscoso. “I’m forever grateful he paved that way.”
Ortiz did not get the opportunity to attend college and play collegiate baseball. After graduating from high school in the Dominican Republic he went straight into the Seattle Mariners minor league system. Many members of the CSUDH baseball team would love to follow in his footsteps and make it to the major leagues.
Moscoso is very excited to get back on the field with his teammates and play for CSUDH. “We all have a very special bond and get along very well,” mentioned Moscoso. “I’m excited to see how far we go as a ball club.”
The California State University, Dominguez Hills baseball team began its season last Friday with a two game weekend series against the University of La Verne. This comes after their previous baseball season was cut short in 2020 due to the pandemic. The team was off to a very promising start in 2020 and hopes to get back right where they left off.
