2016 AL East Rankings by Position: Designated Hitter
By Nate Wardle
2. Boston Red Sox – David Ortiz, Chris Young, Travis Shaw
There is no doubt about it, this is the swan song for the 40-year-old David Ortiz. And while he doesn’t deserve what Derek Jeter received, a lot of places will honor Big Papi. Orioles fans won’t be among them, not after many of the antics they have seen. I’m guessing many others in the division might feel the same way.
Ortiz started the 2015 year in a major hole, especially against left-handers. Rumors were swirling that he couldn’t cut it and should platoon at DH. Well, the Red Sox had enough other issues that they stuck with him, and he produced a line of .273/360/.553 with 37 HRs, 37 2Bs, 108 RBIs, 73 runs and 77 walks. In the second half, Ortiz hit .325. These numbers ended up being better than his 2014 numbers.
Ortiz is another guy who has no range in the field, so he will be the DH as long as he is healthy and playing well. I expect Chris Young to get most of the opportunities to spell Ortiz.
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