A bridge not far from Fenway latest honor for Sox slugger
BOSTON (AP) It's official: Massachusetts has named a bridge in honor of retiring Red Sox slugger David Ortiz.
Republican Gov. Charlie Baker signed into law a spending bill Thursday that includes the provision designating the span over the Massachusetts Turnpike the David Ortiz ''Big Papi'' Bridge.
The bridge runs along Brookline Avenue between Newbury Street and Landsdowne Street, near Fenway Park.
Lawmakers said the honor recognizes Ortiz's accomplishments during his 14 years with the Red Sox, as well as his charitable work on behalf of children and his role in helping the city heal after the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing.
Ortiz played his final regular season games last weekend.
The Red Sox won the American League East, and begin the divisional playoff series Thursday night against the Cleveland Indians.