One thing about life – it tends to surprise you when you least expect it. That’s what happened with David Ortiz during day 1 of the Fanatics Fest. The Boston Red Sox legend has spent his entire career holding a grudge against the New York Yankees. It was during Big Papi’s active on-field career that this rivalry peaked in terms of interest and hatred. So with such a deep-rooted history, it is beyond bizarre to see Ortiz sign a Yankees jersey. 

Yes, there’s no mistake in that last text – David Ortiz did sign a Pinstripes jersey. The Fanatics Fest was always destined to offer something different to the fans. Often dubbed the “Comic-Con of Sports,” Fanatics left no stone unturned to make their inaugural event the biggest of its kind. From Ortiz to Derek Jeter to Tom Brady, every sports legend was present under one roof. And it was here that a kid had a rather unexpected wish that he shared with Big Papi.

In a video shared by Fanatics and MLB, a young fan is seen approaching David Ortiz with the famed “No.2” Yankees shirt. As we all know, that number was retired to honor Derek Jeter (Big Papi’s rival-turned-friend). Initially left surprised Ortiz then decided to do the unthinkable. “This is the first Yankees jersey I’ve ever signed in my life” – Ortiz’s words generated laughter, but then, there was more. 

The young fan was leaving merrily when David Ortiz called him back. Saying that he missed something, the star took back the jersey. And in his typical ‘Ortiz’ fashion, Big Papi added “Red Sox” to his signature. So, despite the strange wish, David Ortiz once again showed how much he loves the Red Sox. This was one of the highlights of a day that was filled with similar moments.

David Ortiz couldn’t help but praise the Yankees and Juan Soto

It is a testament to their impact that the hall where David Ortiz and Derek Jeter were supposed to be in was packed within minutes. Fans couldn’t wait to see these two absolute legends share their baseball experience with them. However, during their banter, Ortiz couldn’t help but notice how much the New York Yankees have improved this season due to Juan Soto’s arrival. “I know one guy cannot carry a whole team, but one guy can change a team,” Ortiz said about Juan Soto.

The Boston Red Sox legend had previously felt that the Bronx Bombers had lost the competitive edge that they had during Derek Jeter’s time. However, since the arrival of Soto, he can sense that the Pinstripes are regaining some of their lost lustre. And that is something that should be a worrisome sign for everyone in the division. “This year I see a different Yankees team. I see the chemistry, that boy Soto man…I’m telling you,” Ortiz couldn’t stop fawning over the Dominican slugger. And for a good reason; after all, since Soto’s arrival, the Bronx Bombers look like a different team.

So, despite the old rivalry, Ortiz has nothing but respect for the Pinstripes. Now, one wonders if Derek Jeter will someday get a similar request too. That would be a sight to see, don’t you agree? Share your take in the comments below.