“You want to compete with those guys across the street? You better bring it. Period,’’ Ortiz said, referencing the Yankees. “We always need help. We need guys capable to produce. Not only us, everybody. That’s what everybody chases in the offseason, guys that can come in and provide power, RBIs.
“This is a team that plays in the [American League] East division. Everything is powerful right here. You saw the world champions in the East. You have Tampa Bay in the East. You have the Blue Jays getting stronger every year in the East. You have Baltimore that you don’t know if they’re going to come and kick your [butt] all year along in the East.
“This division is hard to play. You need to get stronger.’’
Ortiz laughed when told about speculation that the Sox could trade for San Diego slugger Adrian Gonzalez or Seattle ace Felix Hernandez.
“If I can get both of them, I bring them in,’’ he said. “Problem solved.’’
The primary reason for Ortiz meeting with reporters was to promote his charity golf tournament, which starts Dec. 3 in the Dominican Republic.
The four-day event is expected to include a variety of teammates and manager Terry Francona, along with Pedro Martinez, Alex Rodriguez, Mariano Rivera, Ryan Howard, and Torii Hunter. Proceeds benefit sick children and their families in New England and the Dominican.
“We do this for medical care reasons,’’ said Ortiz. “It’s always good to be involved in things like this when you can help kids.’’
Ortiz spoke while wearing shorts and a pullover, having just come from a workout. The designated hitter, who turned 34 Wednesday, has been in the Boston area since the end of the season.
He is one of several players told by the team that they must return next season in better condition.
“He’s following through with a really good start to his offseason,’’ general manager Theo Epstein said. “He was working out a couple of days after the season ended. You can see he’s lost some weight and is in really good shape. It’s a good sign.’’
