David Ortiz Takes Over SI

For the first time in it's 62-year history, Sports Illustrated will release the first issue to have been guest-edited by an active athlete.

Of course it would be David Ortiz.

Just days before his final regular-season game, the retiring Red Sox slugger will be featured on a regional cover titled: "Designated Editor: Before He Retires Big Papi Takes Over SI." The issue will be released Thursday.

SI had come to Fenway Park earlier in September to shoot the cover as Tom Verducci conducted what the media organization called an "in-depth, candid Q&A on a range of topics in which Ortiz doesn’t shy away from tough questions about PEDs, his proudest accomplishments and his biggest disappointments."

David Ortiz Pens Emotional, Hilarious Farewell to the Yankees

The interview and video from SI's time with Ortiz will be live tomorrow on SI.com, with more Ortiz stories being added throughout the week.

Golfing legend Arnold Palmer, who died Sunday, will be on SI's national cover this Thursday.

Ortiz is just about done with his unrivaled career, with just a handful of games left before the playoffs start. The Red Sox have already clinched a postseason spot, meaning Big Papi will take one final swing at his fourth World Series championship with Boston.

For expanded coverage on Big Papi's swan song and his SI issue, visit SI.com.

Cover photo by Michael J. LeBrecht II for Sports Illustrated.