David “Big Papi” Ortiz
David Ortiz will forever be a legend in the city thanks to his on the field heroics for the Red Sox, but on April 20th, 2013, he transcended the sport of baseball. The man that is affectionately known as “Big Papi” by Red Sox Nation has been beloved by the city since his arrival ahead of the 2003 season.
Boston’s newest slugger instantly gave himself to the community and was received with open arms thanks to his boisterous persona.
Again, his on the field efforts made him beyond a legend to those that follow the Red Sox, but when the city needed someone the most, he stepped up. Ahead of that day game on April 20th, Papi took the mic and sent a message not only to Boston but to the world. This would be the first Red Sox home game since the bombing, and the powerhouse DH wanted to make sure that his voice was heard loud and clear.
In what is now known as the “This is our city,” speech, Ortiz poured out his love and pride for the city of Boston and all of those that inhabit it. He would thank the officials that sought out the safety of the city while giving praise to all of the first responders that risked their lives. Then he belted out the line that will stay with everyone for the rest of time:
“This is our fucking city, and nobody is gonna dictate our freedom. Stay strong!”
