David Ortiz is a legend in Red Sox and MLB history, not even a year out of retirement. Number 34 is already hanging up in the rafters of Fenway Park, and there’s not a single person in the New England area who doesn’t know the name and legacy of David Ortiz. Since he played his last game for the Red Sox in late 2016, he’s been enjoying retirement from baseball but remains busy.
Yesterday, Ortiz and the Red Sox announced a long term deal in which he will serve as a mentor for young players, represent the team at events, help with recruiting (both of free agents and prospects), and assist Fenway Sports Management in business development. The entire deal ensures that Ortiz retains a permanent place in Red Sox history and the Red Sox future.
Perhaps even more interesting, however, is the announcement of Ortiz’s wine company, Arias Wines. Ortiz used to go by the last name Arias (his mother’s last name) until 1997. Look up David Arias of the Minnesota Twins and you’ll know what I’m talking about. In a testament to their mothers’ legacies, Ortiz and company partner Peter Ianniello created Arias Wine. The company offers a number of fine wines, in addition to a wine club service, where members receive select Arias wines four times a year. Oh, and did we mention that Ianniello, a musician, even released an album on iTunes as a tribute to mothers and the Arias Wine company.
Ortiz is doing big things in his retirement, and one might even say he’s busier now that he’s retired. With sponsorship deals, tons of philanthropy and volunteering thanks to the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, new business commitments, and let’s not forget his brand new cigar brand that released its first product earlier this summer – Big Papi David Ortiz Cigars, Ortiz is plenty busy despite not suiting up in a Red Sox uniform every night. Boston fans will surely miss seeing his leadership and charisma on the field, but now he’s moved onto a new field with new home runs to hit.
