Springfield, MA – The Springfield Thunderbirds are excited to announce a special appearance by Boston Red Sox legend David Ortiz for the Thunderbirds game on Saturday, Nov. 11 against the Laval Rocket at the MassMutual Center.

 

David Ortiz Night will be an opportunity like no other for western Massachusetts to celebrate the career of a baseball legend and for fans to say ‘thank you’ for some of the most exciting moments in Red Sox history.

 

“I’m very excited to visit my fans in Springfield and thank them for all of their love and support over the past 15 years," said Ortiz.

 

Ortiz, who retired last year after 19 seasons in Major League Baseball, had his #34 jersey retired earlier this year by the Red Sox. He finished his career with 3 World Series titles and 541 career home runs, the most in Red Sox history.

 

“We could not be more ecstatic to be able to host David Ortiz at a Thunderbirds game,” said Thunderbirds President Nathan Costa. “This is the biggest promotional night in our franchise’s history, and we cannot wait to share in our fans’ excitement to see ‘Big Papi’ in Springfield. It will truly be a highlight of our season and a memorable salute to one of the world’s most beloved athletes.”

 

‘Big Papi’ will be in the spotlight for a pregame puck drop ceremony, as well as throughout the first intermission, where he will be down on the ice for entertainment and activities. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to receive a special edition David Ortiz poster commemorating the evening.

 

“We’re honored to give a big Springfield welcome and thank you to Mr. David Ortiz – ‘Big Papi’ – for all those tremendous heart-stopping and thrilling heroics he brought to Red Sox Nation," said Domenic J. Sarno, City of Springfield Mayor. "From a clutch home run to now a hat trick – Big Papi and our T-Birds score big, and maybe there will be some World Series-to-Calder Cup karma too!”

 

“Our organization is dedicated to providing great value and entertainment to Thunderbirds fans throughout the region,” said Paul Picknelly, Thunderbirds Managing Partner. “This is yet another example of our local ownership group and front office coming together to create a unique experience that people will be talking about for years to come.”

 

While November 11 will mark Ortiz’s appearance in Springfield, it will not be the only night where 'Big Papi' is highlighted on the promotional calendar. The Thunderbirds also announced that on Sat., Feb. 17, Ortiz's November appearance in Springfield will be commemorated with a special edition bobblehead depicting the beloved 'Big Papi' in a Thunderbirds jersey.

 

The Thunderbirds open their 2017-18 regular season on Saturday, Oct. 14 for a matchup with the rival Hartford Wolf Pack. Ticket memberships, including season tickets, are on sale now, starting at just $12 per game. Thunderbirds Full Season Ticket Members receive the most benefits, including a refillable collector’s mug and a commemorative jersey. For more information or to order now, call (413) 739-GOAL (4625) or visit www.SpringfieldThunderbirds.com.