David Ortiz expected to make full recovery, ‘flashed that smile’ in hospital

Ortiz Seen Smiling After Surgery In Boston

Former Red Sox star David Ortiz was seen alert and smiling after undergoing exploratory surgery in Boston. Ortiz was shot at a club in eastern Santo Domingo, a bustling nightlife district packed with dance clubs and bars. A team of surgeons operated on Ortiz for six hours and repaired the damage done by the bullet to both intestines and his liver. They also had to remove Ortiz's gallbladder to work on the liver, though the gallbladder itself was not damaged.

Doctors say Ortiz will be 'closely monitored' for the next 24 hours but is expected to make a full recovery. Ortiz' assistant told ESPN the ex-slugger has spoken to his family and "even flashed that smile".

"On behalf of me and my family, I want to thank John and Linda Henry, Tom Werner, Sam Kennedy and the Boston Red Sox for all that they are doing for David and our family, as well as Dr. Larry Ronan and the amazing staff at Massachusetts General Hospital," Tiffany Ortiz said. "Lastly, I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and love that we have received during this incredibly difficult time. We ask for privacy as David works towards recovery."

The 43-year-old Ortiz was flown to Boston after being shot Sunday outside a bar in the Dominican Republic. Two people are in custody in connection with the shooting.