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Twins let Big Papi go: Red Sox strike gold!
10 Apr
Summary
- David Ortiz signed a one-year, $1.3 million deal with Boston.
- ESPN ranked Ortiz's signing as the third-best in history.
- The Twins released Ortiz at age 26 after his best season.

The Minnesota Twins' decision to release David Ortiz following his best offensive season at the age of 26 has been retrospectively highlighted as one of baseball's greatest blunders. The Boston Red Sox capitalized on this opportunity, signing the slugger to a one-year contract for just $1.3 million ahead of the 2003 season. This acquisition is now ranked as the third-best free-agent signing in Major League Baseball history, according to ESPN's analysis, placing it among legendary moves by Barry Bonds and Greg Maddux. Ortiz quickly became an iconic figure for the Red Sox, transforming from a player cut by the Twins into a revered legend who remained with the franchise until his retirement after the 2011 season. His enduring legacy with Boston is a testament to the Twins' overlooked talent and the Red Sox's foresight in acquiring a player whose defensive position was uncertain.