David Ortiz will head into free agency this winter seeking the type of respect from the Red Sox that comes along with a lucrative, long-term contract.
"In my case, it's not even all about the money," Ortiz said "It's all about respect. That's the way I see it."
He is believed to be seeking a two-year deal that would allow him to retire in Boston.
"Yeah, of course, it's something I don't want to be worried about anymore," Ortiz said. "If I can play, I can play. You can't take that away from me. I think it's easier for me not to be answering the questions you’re asking me right now the whole year.
"It's been, what, three years now that I've got to be answering this question, and I've been one of the most productive players on this ballclub. Why me?"