Ortiz Famous MLB star David Ortiz, hit another crazy milestone in his baseball career. Recently, the National Baseball Hall of Fame selected the former Boston Red Sox designated hitter and first baseman as a new member to their incoming 2022 class. At the start of his 20-year MLB career, Ortiz was originally signed to the Seattle Mariners, but was soon traded to the Minnesota Twins four years later. 

His iconic nickname “Big Papi” was not created until he joined the Red Sox in his late-20s. Some of Ortiz’s many accomplishments include hitting an impressive 541 home runs throughout his entire MLB career, winning three World Series Championships with the Red Sox, and claiming an two MVP Awards during critical series: the 2004 AL Championship Series and the 2013 World Series. Along with these achievements, he also had 10 All-Star Game appearances.

The 46-year old received the news of his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame on Tuesday, Jan. 25. The ballot for the Baseball Writers Association of America requires a 75% threshold to enter and Ortiz was the only member of the 2022 class to surpass it. The other six members of the class are Buck O’Neil, Bud Fowler, Jim Kaat, Tony Oliva, Gil Hodges and Minnie Miñoso.

He finished with 77.9% in becoming the 58th player elected the first year he was eligible. He expresses his excitement and gratitude of being able to get in on the first ballot after hearing how difficult it really was. 

“Man it’s a wonderful honor to be able to get in on my first rodeo. It’s something that is very special to me,” Ortiz said. 

The 2022 Hall of Fame induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 24. The legend will now live forever in the Halls of Cooperstown.