David Ortiz Shot: Moved to Boston and Receives Message from former President Obama

UPDATE (6:30 a.m. ET): Ortiz’s assistant Leo Lopez says there’s “no doubt” that the shooting was “an act of hitmen” and was not a robbery. (USA Today)

Former Red Sox star David “Big Papi” Ortiz was flown to Boston on Monday afternoon on an air ambulance provided by his one-time team, officials for the team said Monday afternoon.

Ortiz was shot in the back Sunday at close range at a bar in Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic.

Leo Lopez, the long-time assistant for Ortiz, explained why the former baseball star is being moved to Boston, “It’s a family decision, because the last 20 years of his life have revolved around the Boston Red Sox.”

Although initial reports said the assailant’s bullet did not hit any of Ortiz’s organs, it turns out that his gallbladder and part of his intestines were removed during surgery following the shooting. His liver also sustained damage. (The New York Times)

Hot Takes:

  • As he was wheeled into the medical clinic in Santo Domingo, Ortiz reportedly said, “Please don’t let me die, I’m a good man.”
  • Good for the Red Sox to step up and take care of one of their own, even if he’s retired.
  • Red Sox President Sam Kennedy said, “David Ortiz is one of the most celebrated and beloved members of the Red Sox family.”
  • Current and former players, as well as former President Obama, posted get well messages for Ortiz on social media.

Barack Obama

@BarackObama

Six years ago, David Ortiz’s spirit and resolve helped us all begin to heal from the Boston Marathon bombing. Today, I want to join many others in wishing him a speedy recovery of his own. Get well soon, Papi.

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