NEW YORK — In a ceremony that was genuine and respectful, the Yankees honored David Ortiz before his final game at Yankee Stadium on Thursday night.
To cheers, Ortiz was escorted to home plate along with his wife, Tiffany, and children Alexandra and D'Angelo.
Announcer Paul Olden said the Yankees were "putting aside the rivalry" to pay tribute to Ortiz.
Yankees broadcaster David Cone and center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury, both former Red Sox players, presented Ortiz with a custom-created, leather-bound book of personalized letters from current and former Yankees players.
Retired Yankees great Mariano Rivera then gave Ortiz an oil painting by Justyn Franco. It shows Ortiz tipping his cap to fans at Yankee Stadium.
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As the crowd cheered, Ortiz embraced Rivera. The public address system then played "Sweet Caroline."
Ortiz received a loud ovation from the crowd when he came to the plate in the second inning. He drew a walk in the fourth inning and left the game for a pinch runner. Another ovation followed.
Here are some of the letters in the book:
David:
Wishing you all the best in your retirement. You've been a terrific clutch hitter during your special career. Personally I wish you had retired after the 2003 season.
With respect,
Joe Torre
David:
It was an absolute pleasure watching and competing against you for all these years. The Yankees-Red Sox rivalry is the greatest in all sports. It is rivalry that I will forever miss and you were a huge part of it. I wish you all the best in retirement. Now it's time for you to relax!
Derek Jeter
David:
It was so much fun competing against you. Every time you stepped to the plate I knew I had to be on top of my game. Congratulations on your career. Retirement is not that bad!
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Andy Pettitte
David:
You were one of the most feared hitters of your generation. If the game was on the line, we did not want to see you some to the plate. More importantly, you took on the heartbeat of Boston when the city was going through some of its toughest times. You were someone they could turn to.
Best wishes,
Joe Girardi
David:
I've always respected your approach to the game. You are one of my favorite teammates ever and the best clutch hitter I've ever seen. All the best on retirement and good luck in your endeavors.
Long live Big Papi!
Johnny Damon
Papi
Hard to sum up in a few short sentences but I'll give it a try. As a young player you taught me what it meant to be a true professional and together we grew into World Champions! I've had the unique honor of being both your teammate and rival but most importantly a friend for life. All the best to you and your family
Chief
(Jacoby Ellsbury)
Peter Abraham can be reached at pabraham@globe.com. Follow him on Twitter @PeteAbe.