Ortiz to retire after 2016 season: 'We run out of time at some point'

On his 40th birthday, Boston Red Sox slugger David Ortiz announced that the 2016 season will be his last.

"For every single one of us, athletes wise, we run out of time at some point," Ortiz said. "Life is based on different chapters and I think I'm ready to experience the next one in my life."

Arguably the greatest designated hitter in major-league history, Ortiz enters his 20th and final season still producing at a high rate. He finished 2015 with 37 home runs and 108 RBIs - a third straight season with at least 30 homers and 100 RBIs.

"I'm very thankful for having fans who have supported me throughout my career, I wish I could play another 40 years, but it doesn't work that way," Ortiz said. "After next year time is up, so lets enjoy next season."

After six seasons with the Minnesota Twins, Ortiz signed with the Red Sox in 2003. He's gone on to appear in 1,802 games with Boston, spanning 13 seasons, while winning three World Series titles. Ortiz ranks third in franchise history in doubles and home runs, fourth in RBIs, and sixth in games played.

''It is difficult to adequately convey what David Ortiz has meant to the Boston Red Sox,'' team owner John Henry said in a statement. ''For those of us who have had the honor of knowing him all these years, he has been exactly what you hope to see in a man who has been the face of this organization.''

Ortiz's 447 home runs as a DH are the most since the position was established, and his 503 career homers are good for the 27th all-time. The nine-time All-Star is within striking distance of moving up the home run ranks, needing 18 to catch Willie McCovey, Ted Williams, and Frank Thomas for 19th place.