David Ortiz

Ah, the next hot topic in Boston Sports is brewing....and it is none other than David Ortiz.

I am hearing all sorts of buzz about DO and why his skills have declined.

Now, before you start believing all sorts of strange and wild reasons why he was good and not so good, really, it is time to take a good glance at the reasons behind DO and why he just might be declining.

1. Age. David is getting up there. At his age, sometimes the skills begin to diminish quickly. We often forget that DH's have a few good years and then finish fast. Boston's had several of those over the years that burn out. Now, we have never had one as good as DO, which makes this seem scary.

2. Injuries. They have been catching up to DO. It happens to players from time to time. Before you know it, the snowball effect happens and the player isn't the same. We've seen it happen in Boston before with a similar injury. Remember Nomar??? Was going to be the second Ted Williams. A wrist injury later, he is traded out of here, nowhere close to his former self. Now, perhaps there are other reasons why this may have happened as well....but that wrist injury totally changed him and his hitting.

3. They know you. Think about it. For the first few seasons, DO was "the man." But, now the AL has gotten to know him so well. That's what happens when you become clutch. The AL has made adjustments. Many. And they've worked. DO really hasn't made as many as maybe he can or should.

So, when you add it all up, there is a logical reason why DO may not longer be the Big Papi we love. It doesn't mean he can't contribute....just don't expect him to be the Big Papi we have come to know and love. That one is gone. We are now witness the genesis of a new Papi....and, hopefully, the results will eventually get a bit better....but don't be surprised if they don't