Big Papi returns after injury

BOSTON (WHDH) -- After running the bases yesterday David Ortiz will play tonight for the first time since straining his right Achilles on July 17.

"Well I feel okay, yea I mean I'm not really ready but I think I can play like this and hopefully continue improving,” said Ortiz.

If there's one guy who can help save the Red Sox season, it's Big Papi.

"No not really. I mean I try my best like I always do and whatever happens, happens but I know that my presence in the lineup can get things better,” he said.

The Red Sox are 13-21 in his absence with designated hitters struggling at the plate batting .238 with no homeruns; a stat Big Papi still leads the team in, despite missing more than a month.

“Just the presence of him in the lineup - the pitchers are thinking two and three batters down the line, like, OK, can't really pitch around this guy 'cause two batters later, I gotta face David,” said Red Sox outfielder, Cody Ross.

Unlike Carl Crawford who felt pressured by the fans and management to return from injury, David Ortiz said the Sox didn't pressure him at all and he's ready to give it a go in Friday night’s game.