After picking up a one-year option on David Ortiz this past offseason, the Red Sox have yet to discuss a new contract with the slugger, according to ESPNBoston.com.
After slow starts the past two seasons, Ortiz has started off with big numbers this year, batting .325 with 17 home runs and 43 RBIs entering Tuesday. Even with the increased production, though, Ortiz isn't concerned with the lack of contract talk.
"At this point we have a good streak going," Ortiz told ESPN.com. "We are all focused on bringing back the championship to Boston. We don't need any particular distractions, from me or anybody else."
Ortiz said no one has approached him yet, and he doesn't expect the front office to initiate negotiations until after October.
"They can talk about my contract in April, May, June or whenever they want," Ortiz said to ESPN.com back in Spring Training. "I don't like controversy. And if they make an offer during the season it's because they have an interest in me. If they talk to me in August, June, or whenever, I'll be available for anything."
Ortiz echoed that statement Tuesday, saying he felt the team shouldn't bring in distractions such as this while the team is playing well. Big Papi also expressed his desire to stay in Boston for the rest of his career.
"None of that has changed, but I think it would be somewhat improper to get into this kind of thing now that we are playing so well. I would like to stay in Boston for the rest of my career, but it's something that is out of my control … All I can do is get ready each day to do the only thing I do … hit."
