Red Sox officially announce David Ortiz signing

Big Papi will stay in Boston. (US Presswire)

The Boston Red Sox officially announce on Monday the signing of designated hitter David Ortiz. The deal is for two years and $26 million, with incentives giving Ortiz the ability to push the deal up to $30 million, reports CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman.

“David Ortiz has made immeasurable contributions to the Red Sox for the past decade,” said Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington in a statement. “He is an historic figure, a beloved hero, and an important player as we build our team for 2013 and beyond.”

Ortiz, 36, was also a free agent last offseason and signed to stay in Boston for one year and $14.58 million. And now he's signed for two more.

“Signing David Ortiz was a critical piece of our off-season planning,” said president Larry Lucchino in a statement. “It was one of our highest priorities. We hope and trust he will complete his career as a member of this franchise and will be associated with the Boston Red Sox for years to come.”

Ortiz was well on his way to having his best offensive season since 2007 until an achilles injury hampered him in mid-July. Ortiz hit .318/.415/.611 with 23 homers, 60 RBI, 65 runs and 26 doubles in just 90 games.

“David Ortiz has been one of the most positive influences in Red Sox history,” said owner John Henry in a statement. “He has been a leader among his teammates, a favorite among the fans, and a powerful force in the middle of lineups that have produced so much joy and happiness for New England. He has our gratitude and respect as he continues a career that could culminate in Cooperstown.”

Ortiz is an eight-time All-Star and has spent the past 10 seasons with the Red Sox.

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