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David Ortiz is a big guy, but last night, his trademark smile was even bigger.
The Red Sox designated hitter was named the World Series MVP after Boston claimed the World Series title in a 6-1 win at Fenway Park over the St. Louis Cardinals.
“We had a tough time but we learned that it’s not how many times they knock you down, but how many times you can get up, and that’s why we’re here,” Ortiz said.
For the first time since Babe Ruth’s team in 1918, Boston took the World Series at home. This is their third title in the past 10 years, and Ortiz has been in Boston for all three. Ortiz put up a .688 average in the World Series, with six RBI and two homers through the six games. He led the Sox with .760 on-base percentage as well.
“It’ll never get old,” Ortiz said. “This is something that every player looks forward to — to be a part of it, and not only to be part of it, but to win it.”
Boston’s starter, John Lackey, allowed nine hits and one run in Game Six. Lackey became the third pitcher in history to win a World Series clincher for two different teams. In 2002, he pitched Game 7 for the Angels. He’s the only pitcher to get both those wins as a starter.
Shane Victorino provided the first spark for Boston with a three-run double off the Green Monster in the third. He also had an RBI single in the fourth.
Cards outfielder Carlos Beltran had an RBI single in the seventh, but it wasn’t enough to overcome a 6-0 deficit put up by Boston.
The Red Sox wrapped up the series with a 1.84 ERA, the lowest by an American League Team in a World Series since the 1983 champions, the Orioles (1.60).
After the terrorist attack at the Boston Marathon this year, “Boston Strong” has become a mantra for the city and the Sox. Second baseman Dustin Pedroia, who hit .208 in the series, said the best part of clinching the title at home was staying true to that after a rough year.
“Special group of guys, and that’s all I can say, that sums it up,” Pedroia said. “We’ve dealt with a lot with what went on here in Boston earlier in the year. Our team came together in spring training, believed in each other, and we’re the last team standing. It’s a great feeling.”
