D’Angelo Ortiz Responds to Nepotism Accusations: “It’s Not Because of My Name” That the Red Sox Are Betting on Me

In a world where family legacies often play a major role in shaping careers, D’Angelo Ortiz, the son of Red Sox legend David Ortiz, is keen to prove that his success in professional baseball isn’t the result of nepotism. Recently, accusations have surfaced questioning whether his spot in the Boston Red Sox organization is simply a result of his famous last name, but Ortiz is adamant that his hard work and dedication are what have earned him the opportunity.

The 22-year-old outfielder has been in the Red Sox minor league system since being drafted in 2020, and he’s quickly gained recognition for his raw talent and athleticism. However, with his father being a beloved figure in the team’s history, the shadow of his father’s legacy has always loomed large over his career. David Ortiz, also known as “Big Papi,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball history, and his contributions to the Red Sox — including three World Series championships — have cemented his place as an icon in Boston sports lore.

As D’Angelo Ortiz continues his journey through the minor leagues, speculation about his place within the Red Sox organization has increased. Some critics argue that his entry into professional baseball, and particularly his placement with the Red Sox, has more to do with his family name than with his own merits as a player. However, D’Angelo is quick to reject these claims, stressing that he has earned his position through his own efforts.

“I understand the connection people make because of my last name,” D’Angelo said in a recent interview. “But at the end of the day, it’s not because of my name that the Red Sox are betting on me. It’s because of the work I put in. I’ve been grinding since I was a kid, just like any other player. I know I have big shoes to fill, and I don’t take that lightly. But I want to make a name for myself, not just ride on my dad’s coattails.”

Despite the weight of his father’s legacy, Ortiz has tried to establish himself as an individual player with his own identity in the baseball world. While his father’s influence on his development as a player is undeniable, D’Angelo emphasizes the importance of his own path. Growing up in the Dominican Republic, where baseball is a way of life, he learned the sport from a very young age, spending countless hours on the field with his father. However, it wasn’t until later in life that D’Angelo decided to pursue the game seriously. As a teenager, he was recognized for his speed, power, and strong fielding skills, qualities that made him a valuable asset to the Red Sox when they selected him in the 2020 draft.

Still, with the name “Ortiz” comes a unique level of scrutiny. D’Angelo’s progress is often viewed through a lens of comparison to his father, with the expectations attached to his name. However, the young outfielder has made it clear that he’s more than capable of handling the pressure. He understands that the comparisons are inevitable, but he’s focused on carving out his own legacy.

“I’m proud of my dad and everything he did for the Red Sox and for the game of baseball,” he shared. “But I’m my own person. I have my own goals, and I’m going to do everything I can to reach them on my own terms. The Red Sox believe in me, and that’s why I’m here. I’m not going to let anyone’s opinion change that.”

In response to the accusations of nepotism, the Red Sox front office has also weighed in, expressing confidence in D’Angelo’s abilities and his potential as a future contributor to the team. Red Sox president of baseball operations, Chaim Bloom, praised Ortiz’s development, pointing out that his performance on the field speaks for itself.

“We’ve been impressed with D’Angelo since we drafted him. His work ethic, his approach to the game, and his desire to improve every day are qualities we value in our players. He’s earning his spot, and we’re excited to continue watching his growth,” Bloom said.

D’Angelo’s journey has just begun, and while the eyes of the world are watching to see if he can live up to the enormous expectations placed on him, he’s focused on proving that he has what it takes to succeed, regardless of his last name. With every at-bat and every game, he hopes to show that his spot with the Red Sox is not a result of favoritism, but rather the product of his dedication and talent.

As he works his way through the minor leagues and into the spotlight, D’Angelo Ortiz is more than ready to make his own mark in the world of baseball. He’s not just “Big Papi’s” son; he’s D’Angelo Ortiz, a player in his own right, and he’s determined to prove to everyone that his name belongs in the same conversation as his legendary father — but only through his own merit.