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Red Sox Nation 10/27: David Ortiz Wins AL 2016 Hank Aaron Award

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

Oct 10, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) celebrates with first baseman Hanley Ramirez (13) during a stop in play Cleveland Indians in the eight inning of game three of the 2016 ALDS playoff baseball series at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 10, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) celebrates with first baseman Hanley Ramirez (13) during a stop in play Cleveland Indians in the eight inning of game three of the 2016 ALDS playoff baseball series at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /
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Retired Boston Red Sox slugger David Ortiz was named the American League’s best offensive player on Wednesday.

Former Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz will not be stepping back on the field again, but the accolades continue.

Major League Baseball announced Wednesday that the man known as Big Papi has won the Hank Aaron Award for the American League.  The award is given to the best offensive performer in each league which is quite the honor for a man who had one of his best offensive seasons in his final season.

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The 40-year-old Ortiz led all players with a .620 slugging percentage, a 1.021 OPS and 48 doubles.  Impressively, he was as dangerous at the plate as he ever was in his 20-year Major League Career.  He batted .315 with 38 home runs and 127 RBI.

Chicago Cubs young slugger Kris Bryant claimed the award for the National League.  Both players were selected through fan votes and a special panel of Hall of Fame players led by the great Hank Aaron, who personally congratulated the winners.

"“It is an honor that the awards, which distinguish the top offensive performers in baseball, have my name on it,” Aaron said. “I want to congratulate Kris and David on their terrific seasons and extend my thanks to the Hall of Famers and fans who once again helped select the winners.”"

Yoan Moncada:  Top prospect Yoan Moncada has missed time on the field in the Arizona League due to a jammed left thumb.  He suffered the injury while swinging at an inside pitch last Friday night.

According to MLB.com, the promising infielder is expected to be out for a couple more days.

"“It’s been a little sore, but he’s supposed to start baseball activity tomorrow,” Surprise Saguaros manager Carlos Febles said on Tuesday. “So hopefully he’ll start playing on Friday.”"

Sam Travis:  Another top prospect in the Red Sox organization says he expects to be ready for spring training.

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Mar 17, 2016; Fort Myers, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox first baseman Sam Travis (74) hits a home run in the second inning against the Baltimore Orioles at JetBlue Park. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /

First baseman Sam Travis was on route to get a major league look before blowing out his knee in May. He is not letting the injury slow down his dream and found extra motivation in witnessing former college teammate, Kyle Schwarber, start for the Chicago Cubs in the World Series.  Schwarber only played two regular season games due to a torn ACL and LCL.  Witnessing his good friend work his way back after the injury has pumped up a very energetic Travis.

"“It was awesome,” Travis said via WEEI. “I talked to [Schwarber] a few days ago when he was playing out in Arizona. When he found out he was flying to Cleveland, emotions were definitely flying. You couldn’t be happier for the guy. He’s always worked his ass off. It couldn’t happen to a better guy. When he almost went deep yesterday I was going crazy. I was fired up.”"

Next: Boston Bruins Forgot They Had Two More Periods To Play Against Rangers

Sam Travis could have a chance to win a job at first base with the Red Sox if Hanley Ramirez does indeed replace David Ortiz as the team’s designated hitter.

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