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David Ortiz, affectionately known as “Big Papi,” is celebrated as one of the most clutch hitters in Major League Baseball history. His heroic moments during the Boston Red Sox’s playoff runs have cemented his legacy as a postseason legend. Here, we explore his top 10 most clutch hits that helped lead the Red Sox to multiple World Series titles.
1. 2004 ALCS Game 4: The Walk-Off Single
In the 2004 American League Championship Series against the New York Yankees, Ortiz delivered a dramatic walk-off single in the 12th inning, tying the series at 2-2. His clutch hit sparked the Red Sox’s historic comeback from a 3-0 series deficit.
2. 2004 ALCS Game 7: The Go-Ahead Home Run
With the series on the line, Ortiz hit a decisive solo home run in the eighth inning, giving the Red Sox a 4-2 lead over the Yankees. This pivotal hit sealed their first AL pennant since 1986 and propelled them to their first World Series title in 86 years.
3. 2004 World Series Game 4: The Clutch RBI Double
Facing elimination, Ortiz came through with a critical RBI double in the seventh inning against the St. Louis Cardinals. His hit ignited a rally that helped the Red Sox tie the series at 2-2, eventually winning the championship.
4. 2007 ALCS Game 4: The Big Hit in a Tight Spot
In the 2007 ALCS against the Cleveland Indians, Ortiz delivered a key single in the eighth inning, driving in a run that helped the Red Sox secure a 4-2 victory and take a 3-1 series lead.
5. 2013 World Series Game 2: The Home Run to Tie the Game
Ortiz’s solo home run in the seventh inning of Game 2 against the St. Louis Cardinals was a game-tying blast that shifted momentum in favor of Boston. The Red Sox went on to win that game and eventually claimed the championship.
6. 2013 World Series Game 6: The Final Clutch Hit
In the decisive Game 6, Ortiz delivered a two-run single in the seventh inning, breaking a tie and helping the Red Sox clinch their third World Series title in a decade.
7. 2018 ALDS Game 3: The Decisive Home Run
Facing elimination, Ortiz hit a crucial three-run homer off the Yankees’ reliever, sealing the victory and advancing Boston to the ALCS. His timely power showcased his enduring clutch ability.
8. 2018 ALCS Game 4: The Game-Turning Double
Ortiz hit a double in the eighth inning that sparked a rally, helping the Red Sox overcome a deficit and take a commanding 3-1 series lead against the Houston Astros.
9. 2018 World Series Game 4: The Big Hit in a Close Game
In Game 4 of the 2018 World Series, Ortiz delivered a clutch single in the seventh inning, extending Boston’s lead and helping secure their fourth World Series title in franchise history.
10. 2018 World Series Game 5: The Final Clutch Moment
Although Ortiz did not play in Game 5, his leadership and presence throughout the playoffs inspired the Red Sox to victory, culminating in their championship win. His legendary postseason performance remains a benchmark for clutch hitting.