Emotional Papi honored with stirring ceremony

BOSTON — Everyone at Fenway Park on Sunday saw a side of David Ortiz that they had never seen before.

An emotional Big Papi was touched by the final ceremony that honored his career and 14 seasons with the Red Sox before his last regular-season game.

The Red Sox put together a special commemoration filled with love and unforgettable memories, featuring Red Sox Hall of Famers and astounding gifts.

There were no shortage of tears or smiles as the Red Sox Foundation presented Ortiz with a $500,000 check to the David Ortiz Children’s Fund that surgically saved 563 lives. Moments later, Red Sox ownership, including John Henry and Tom Werner, matched that donation to bring the generous contribution to a total of $1 million.

As fans in the bleachers held up signs that created the No. 34, the Red Sox announced Ortiz’s number will be retired in a ceremony next year. The slugger pumped his fists, clapped his hands and smiled ear to ear in appreciation.

Ortiz couldn’t hold back his tears as former Red Sox World Series champions walked out from behind a red curtain in center field, led by ex-teammate and beloved friend, Pedro Martinez. A total of 24 players joined Ortiz on the field, including Manny Ramirez, Kevin Millar, Nomar Garciaparra, Curt Schilling, Kevin Youkilis and Jason Varitek. Big Papi made sure to hug every single one of them.

Ortiz was then joined by his family in front of the mound, including his wife, daughter, son …

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