Pedro Martinez’s story of David Ortiz signing shows how lucky Red Sox were

In an interview with Bleacher Report and TNT Sports, Hall of Fame pitcher Pedro Martinez detailed how he actively recruited David Ortiz to the Boston Red Sox ahead of the 2003 season. After encountering Ortiz at a restaurant the day the Minnesota Twins released him, Martinez aggressively contacted Boston's front office, reaching traveling secretary Jack McCormick to urge the club to sign the slugger before rival teams could intervene.

BoSox Injection writer Katie Manganelli highlights how pivotal Martinez's initiative proved for the franchise's history. Ortiz joined Boston, revitalized his career, and helped break the Curse of the Bambino by winning the 2004 World Series alongside Martinez, eventually capturing three titles overall.