Big Papi

I want to thank the United States of America from the bottom of my heart as an American citizen who welcomed me with open arms since I was practically a child and giving me the opportunity to develop and fulfill all my dreams and then some more.  Thank you very much, U.S.  And to all my American friends, consider this an open invitation to visit my island, the Dominican Republic, a special place where we have a lot of good and happy people, beautiful beaches where you guys can go when you’re freezing here.  So show up at the Dominican.

Before I was Big Papi, before the Red Sox, before the Twins, I was just a kid playing ball in the Dominican Republic. ...

I always try to live my life in a way that supports others, that make a positive influence in the world.  And if my story can remind you of anything, let it remind you that when you believe in someone, you can change their world; you can change their future.  Just like so many people who believe in me.  To everyone that believe in me from my family, to coaches to teammates, to fans, know I could not have done this without you.  My Hall of Fame plaque represents each one of you.  And I’m going to thank you guys for the rest of my life.  Thank you very much and God bless you all.

-- Hall of Fame inductee David Ortiz, formerly of the Boston Red Sox, speaking at the National Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony, 24 July 2022, at the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown, N.Y.