MLB Rumors: Red Sox Slugger David Ortiz Ready To Leave Fenway Park?

David Ortiz started off the 2010 campaign very slowly, but that seems to become a trademark start to the year for him. He got off to the same type of start in 2009, but picked it all up and the same pattern carried on in 2010. Big Papi just hit his 31st home-run of the season, but nobody seemed to notice. 

David Ortiz has not been the same imposing figure in the Red Sox line-up since Manny Ramirez left. He came out with his performance enhancing drugs admission, but has failed to carry the Red Sox like he use to. He occasionally shows flashes of his old self with clutch hits and runs batted in. 

Ortiz has a contract expiration date coming in 2012 as he has an option for that year that includes no buyout. The Providence Journal is reporting that the Red Sox have not been in contact with Ortiz as of yet on the topic. The options that Theo Epstein have are either cut him loose or workout new numbers and years. 

The aging designated hitter has expressed interest in having a multi-year deal. It will be up to the Red Sox front office to bite or not. Big Papi doesn't stop there and says that he is assured that he will sign elsewhere and will play in the Major Leagues. 

Ortiz told the Providence Journal, "Sometimes I feel like I’m part of the family, and I’m going to stick around longer, but I’m not the one who makes that decision. I’m not the one who makes that move. I’m trying to do my job and hopefully take care of that after the season."

In the past, Ortiz has told radio waves that he will not take a paycut. Big Papi is sending the message that if the Red Sox do not flash the big bucks, he will not hesitate to find the dollars elsewhere.