David Ortiz makes boy's dreams come true

BOSTON (WHDH) -- A hometown hero created a magical moment off the field at Fenway Park. Nine-year-old Alex Tavares is in the fight of his life -- he has leukemia and spends a lot of time at the hospital.

But Tuesday afternoon, Alex had something to smile about. His hero, Red Sox slugger David Ortiz, made his biggest dream come true.

Even a shy 9-year old couldn’t help but crack a smile when he had David Ortiz by his side.

Alex Tavares was a bit star struck as his Make-a-Wish dream of meeting Big Papi was fulfilled -- and the Red Sox slugger didn't hesitate to take him under his wing.

“That’s my man. He’s just like my son…I’m going to take him around,” Ortiz said.

Alex has leukemia, and his family has been working with Make-a-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island to get him to Fenway to meet his favorite players and throw out the first pitch.

His parents, who are from the Dominican Republic, just like Ortiz, say recent treatments have gone well and lately Alex is feeling a lot better.

“Thank goodness he's doing really well. He’s eating a lot, he’s able to play again, he’s got his strength back,” said Ramona Tavares, Alex’s mother.

Alex followed Papi to batting practice and into the locker room. He was a bit timid -- but you could tell he was excited, and almost at a loss for words.

The 9-year-old plays little league baseball in East Boston. His brother says he's a solid second baseman and some players joked how he might even be big enough to play on the Sox.

After tossing out the first pitch at the game Tuesday night, Alex and his family enjoyed watching the Red Sox from the Monster seats.