Francona Shows Love for Ortiz, Discusses Their Unique Bond

Terry Francona and David Ortiz spent eight seasons together and won two World Series with the Boston Red Sox. They go way back.

So when Francona, now manager of the Cleveland Indians, learned his former player had been shot in the Dominican Republic on Sunday, he understandably was concerned.

But Francona said Tuesday his concerns were somewhat allayed when he learned Ortiz had been transported to Massachusetts General Hospital on Monday for further treatment.

"I know he's in great hands," Francona told reporters Tuesday. "I actually spoke to the doctor today and he couldn't be in a better place or with better people."

Francona would know. The 60-year-old manager, who has dealt with an irregular heartbeat and other health problems over the years, said he spoke to the same doctor who treated him several years ago.

"That was sort of our inside joke," Francona said. "(The doctor) said he's medevaced two people: me and David."

Ortiz underwent a second surgery late Monday night and showed signs of progress Tuesday as he recovers from a gunshot wound he suffered in what's being called an attempted murder.

The former Red Sox slugger has received an outpouring of support during his recovery, and Francona was happy to pile on.

"He's a very special person, not to just to me, to a lot of people," Francona said of Ortiz. " ... Extremely endearing. He could light up a room or put a room at ease with his smile."

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