Salazar finally faces childhood hero

BOSTON — All Danny Salazar wanted was more one chance to face Red Sox slugger David Ortiz. During his childhood in the Dominican Republic, before he had dreams of pitching in the big leagues, Salazar rooted for Boston and followed Big Papi’s blossoming career closely.

Salazar got his wish and a fan in the first row of Fenway Park’s right-field stands got a souvenir. In a 5-2 loss to the Red Sox on Sunday afternoon, the Indians starter allowed three run-scoring hits to Ortiz, who belted the 514th home run of his career off Salazar in the fifth inning.

Was Salazar still happy that he got to face Ortiz before he retired?

“Yes, yes,” Salazar said. “He’s a great guy, a great player. I have respect for him.”

Six weeks ago, Salazar stood in the home clubhouse at Progressive Field, expressing disappointment over a rainout against Boston. The right-hander was supposed to start against the Red Sox on April 7, but the weather pushed his season debut back a day for a game against the White Sox. Salazar knew that, depending on the schedule, he might have missed his opportunity to lock horns with one of the heroes of his …

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