We'll never see the likes of Ortiz again. He was a once-in-a-lifetime ballplayer.
Sure, we'll see Superstars, but not one that stepped in up in the clutch like David did so many times.
Beyond his clutch hitting, the truly amazing thing was the way he embraced his very public role as the spokesman for the team and the entire organization. He went over and above the call of duty and every fan felt like we really knew the guy and loved him. A huge personality with a shrewd intellect and a tons of heart. He was open and honest and despite that he never really got involved in any negative drama. Just a cool guy who seemed like he could handle anything. We all fed off the guy and he never backed down from all that weight. He never blinked except at the very end when he was trying to hold back the tears.
He was completely unprecedented in this town and impossible to duplicate.
Get the statue started now and make sure it is worthy of a living legend.
So long, 34. Enjoy your retirement.