NESN: Martinez’s Presence Bringing Out the Best in Big Papi

“Chemistry can change the course of history”...Isn’t that the famous wall inscription at Fock U.?

Big Papi now has his Manny again—a Latin American brother-in-arms who can provide protection in the lineup and laughs in the dugout. Martinez is Venezuelan, and he and Ortiz have become fast friends. They can talk hitting or smack in Spanish. They can analyze an opposing pitcher’s weaknesses or crack jokes. The two players can relate on a level Papi hasn’t been able to do with a teammate since Manny Ramirez was shipped to the Dodgers. The only difference is that Martinez doesn’t carry any extra baggage. He’s drama-free.

Chemistry is an intangible quality. Some people dismiss it as unimportant or insignificant, but chemistry can change the course of history – for better or worse. In the case of the Red Sox, the addition of Martinez has loosened up everyone in Boston and brought out the best in David Ortiz.

The heart of the Red Sox is beating, and its soul is handing out beatdowns. Joy has returned to Big Papi’s game. He is comfortable again. The pain of watching him look confused in the batter’s box—like he was swinging a sledgehammer at a watermelon seed—has been replaced by excitement and anticipation of what he will do next. The automatic out has been transformed into a rally starter.