If you wanted to see Red Sox slugger David Ortiz participate in the Home Run Derby this year, then I’m afraid I’ve got some bad news *Bad News Barrett voice*.
David Ortiz, who last participated in the Derby in 2010 and won, had this to say about the event.
“The Home Run Derby wears you out. I would like to, but I’ve got so many things lined up. It’s too much. It’s good for the younger guys to do it. It puts you on the map for a minute. Energy is a big part of it. When was the last time you saw a guy my age do it. It takes everything out of you, because you don’t take any cheap swings. Everything has to be powerful. You definitely have to be in your 20’s to do it.
I have to agree with Ortiz on this. There’s no reason he should worry about participating in an event he’s won before. Rest up for a few days and focus on helping the Red Sox catch with the Orioles in the AL East for a possible playoff run in his last season.