Blogs

Manny Ramirez

Outfielder
Position
LF
Bats
R
Throws
R
 
  • Height: 6-0
  • Weight: 200 lbs
  • Born: May 30, 1972

  • Debut: September 2, 1993

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Newsbreakers

November 7, 2009

Manny Ramirez has exercised his $20 million, 2010 player option, making his return to the Dodgers next season official, according to MLB.com.

Our View:

The Dodgers knew this was coming, but were probably holding out a sliver of hope he wouldn't. Manny hit .290 with 19 home runs and 63 RBI in 104 games in 2009.

November 6, 2009

Manny Ramirez is expected to return to the Dodgers in 2010, according to Dylan Hernandez's (Los Angeles Times) twitter page.

Our View:

The news came from Manny's agent Scott Boras. The elite outfielder holds a $20MM option, and will apparently exercise it.

October 20, 2009

Manny Ramirez was not in the Dodgers dugout during Jonathon Broxton's ninth inning meltdown in game three of the NLCS on Monday night, according to Bart Hubbuch of the New York Post. He said he was showering after he was pulled in the ninth inning for defensive purposes.

Our View:

Just once maybe, Manny should try not being Manny. Way to go, Manny.

October 18, 2009

Manny Ramirez had two of the three hits for the Dodgers on Sunday in their 11-0 loss to the Phillies in Game 3 of the NLCS.

Our View:

The Dodgers couldn't do anything again Phillie starter Cliff Lee tonight, but Manny's two hits at least gives the team something to look forward to in Game 4. If Manny can get going at the dish, the Dodgers could very well rebound after this devastating loss.

October 13, 2009

Skipper Joe Torre is not anticipating an extension after his contract expires with the Dodgers, according to the Associated Press. He said, "I have one year on my contract and I do not anticipate it being more than that."

Our View:

Torre has led the Dodgers to back-to-back NL West titles, and his 83 postseason wins are the most in MLB history. The Dodgers should try to convince him to stay longer after his contract runs out after the 2010 campaign.

October 10, 2009

Manny Ramirez went 3-for-5 with two RBI in tonight's 5-1 win in Game 3 of the NLDS at St. Louis. He hit two doubles and a single.

Our View:

Ramirez helped lead the Dodgers to a sweep over the Cardinals, and batted .308 with two RBI in the series. The Dodgers will face either the Rockies or Phillies in the NLCS.

September 28, 2009

Manny Ramirez sat out today's game against the Pirates to rest a sore left hamstring, according to the Associated Press.

Our View:

Ramirez was available to pinch-hit, and his ailment is not believed to be serious. The Dodgers lost 11-1 today, and their magic number remains at one.

September 10, 2009

Manny Ramirez went 2-for-3 with his 18th home run on Wednesday, but the fading Dodgers lost 4-3 late to a Diamondbacks club playing spoiler.

Our View:

Manny has exhibited some power this month after his quiet August (just four home runs in 29 games), batting .250 with three home runs and five RBI.

September 7, 2009

Manny Ramirez went 1-for-2 with a solo homer off Max Scherzer in Monday's 7-2 win at Arizona.

Our View:

Ramirez was having a good game until being ejected for throwing his bat and helmet to the ground near home plate after striking out to end the third inning. His homer was his 17th of 2009.

August 29, 2009

Manny Ramirez finally had a good game on Saturday, going 1-for-3 with a two-run first inning home run in the Dodgers' 11-4 win over the Reds.

Our View:

Manny still has only three August home runs, and just eight since returning from his suspension, however, and isn't a great bet to rely on for power down the stretch.

August 28, 2009

Manny Ramirez capped off a 1-for-5 night on Friday, and killed a two-run ninth inning Dodgers rally, by striking out looking with the bases loaded in a 4-2 game in Cincinnati.

Our View:

There's just no way around it - Manny hasn't been the same player since his 50-game suspension for using a banned substance earlier this season. Since returning to the Dodgers lineup on July 3rd, he has just 7 home runs and 26 RBI in 48 games, including just two home runs since July 22nd.

August 12, 2009

Manny Ramirez paced the Dodgers to a 9-1 victory over the Giants on Tuesday night, going 2-for-3 with a home run and three RBI.

Our View:

The home run was only Manny's second since July 22, and he has driven in runs in only two games since that day.

August 9, 2009

Manny Ramirez was productive in Sunday's 8-2 loss to the Braves at Dodger Stadium, as he went 3-for-4 with a run scored. He hit a double and two singles.

Our View:

Ramirez tied his season-high for 2009 with three hits in a game, the last time coming July 12 at Milwaukee. He is hitting .281 with one homer and four RBI over 32 at-bats this month.

August 4, 2009

Dodgers manager Joe Torre says Manny Ramirez's recent struggles are not the lingering result of his left hand getting hit by a pitch on July 21, according to MLB.com.

Our View:

Manny's lone RBI since then came on a pinch-hit grand slam the next day. He has seen his average drop from .343 to .306 over that span, as well. Manny may finally be beginning to resemble the 37-year-old hitter he is, and not the apparent prolific steroid user he has been alleged to be for much of this decade.

July 30, 2009

In another bit of bad news for Manny Ramirez, it has been revealed he was one of the 103 players who failed Major League Baseball's testing for performance-enhancing drugs in 2003, according to The New York Times.

Our View:

So it now appears that Manny was indeed using steroids long before 2009. Manny apparently wasn't Manny during those Boston glory years without some chemical help. Just sad.

July 26, 2009

Manny Ramirez rested his sore hand on Sunday, according to MLB.com.

Our View:

You may remember that Manny was hit on the hand by a pitch last Tuesday. After the late end to the Dodgers game Saturday night, and with a day game Sunday, manager Joe Torre just thought it would be best to rest the healing slugger. He will start tomorrow night in St. Louis.

July 23, 2009

Manny Ramirez didn't start Wednesday night, but delivered the Dodgers biggest hit, a sixth inning, pinch hit grand slam off of Reds reliever Nick Masset. It would be the difference, as the Dodgers won 6-2 at home.

Our View:

Manny hasn't missed a beat since returning from his 50-game suspension, and looks like he'll be carrying the Dodgers deep into the playoffs again in 2009.

July 22, 2009

Manny Ramirez will sit at out on Wednesday night after being hit in the hand with a Homer Bailey pitch on Tuesday, according to the Associated Press.

Our View:

X-rays on the hand came back negative, and Manny is sitting out solely for precautionary reasons. The Dodgers are off on Thursday, so he will get two full days of rest this way. It is very likely he will be back in the lineup on Friday.

July 22, 2009

According to the LA Times, the X-rays on Manny Ramirez's hand came back negative.

Our View:

Manny was plunked by a Homer Bailey fastball in Tuesday's game and was forced to leave in the third inning. Fantasy owners can exhale now though, as no bones were broken. He'll likely be a little sore and is listed as day-to-day. No word yet on if he'll be in Wednesday's starting lineup, but don't be surprised if he gets a day off. Juan Pierre would fill in if Manny can't go.

July 21, 2009

Manny Ramirez left the Dodgers game on Tuesday in the third inning after being hit by a pitch on his left arm by Reds starter Homer Bailey, according to the Associated Press.

Our View:

There has been no word on his condition yet. Stay tuned for updates.

July 9, 2009

Manny Ramirez led the Dodgers in tonight's 11-2 win at the Mets, as he went 2-for-2 with two RBI and two runs scored. Both of his knocks were singles.

Our View:

Ramirez has an RBI in three straight games, with six total RBI over the span. He continues to hit well after returning from his lengthy suspension.

July 8, 2009

Manny Ramirez hit a ninth inning home run off of Francisco Rodriguez to bring the Dodgers within one of the Mets on Wednesday night, but went just 1-for-5 overall as the Amazins outlasted L.A. 5-4.

Our View:

Manny is picking up right where he left off before his suspension for using a women's fertility drug, and is safe to put in your starting lineup every day from here on out.

July 7, 2009

Manny Ramirez went 2-for-4 with three RBIs as the Dodgers hammered the Mets on Tuesday, but also struck out twice and got ejected.

Our View:

So far, so good for post-suspension Manny, but he has seemed more noticeably irritable since returning. Hopefully for his owners he hasn't lost his carefree attitude, as it has always seemed to be the glue of his game.

July 4, 2009

Manny Ramirez hit his first post-suspension home run on Saturday, his seventh of the season, but it wasn't enough as the Padres beat the Dodgers 7-4 in San Diego.

Our View:

Manny didn't take long to re-assert his place in the Dodgers lineup, and Saturday's bomb was likely the first of many more as he looks to rehabilitate his image and lead the Dodgers to their first World Series win since 1988.

July 4, 2009

Manny Ramirez was 0-for-3 with a walk in his return to the lineup on Friday night.

Our View:

Just Manny being Manny being ineffective at the plate. He's a one man circus, but he a helluva hitter. Keep him in your lineup as he's bound to get hot in the near future.

July 3, 2009

The Dodgers will activate outfielder Manny Ramirez before Friday's game against the Padres. Ramirez has finished serving his 50-game suspension for a positive banned substance test.

Our View:

No word from the Dodgers' yet as to whether or not Manny will be in the lineup, but it seems like a pretty safe bet that he will be. Fantasy owners should have been prepared for this, but if you didn't you should activate Manny and get him in tonight.

June 30, 2009

Manny Ramirez went 1-for-3 for Class-A Inland Empire on Monday in his final rehab game before he is eligible to return from his 50-game suspension for using a banned substance on July 3, according to the Associated Press.

Our View:

Manny was supposed to play one final game for Inland Empire on Tuesday at 11 a.m., but the Dodgers decided there was no need to push him further and have him play a day game after a night game. Despite the rehab assignment, he could still be a little rusty on Friday when he returns, and you could be well-served to sit him a few games before reinserting him into your starting lineup.

June 27, 2009

Dodgers manager Joe Torre said that he does not expect Manny Ramirez to be in top hitting form right out of the gates upon returning to L.A.'s lineup on Thursday, according to MLB.com. "Personally, I think it will take a week or so to get his feet on the ground," Torre said. "And part of that will be the circus. I know he's blocked out that stuff in the past, but he's never had anything like this. This will be different, a different scenario."

Our View:

Take the words for what they're worth, as their nothing more than speculation, though Torre has proven that he <i>just kind of</i> knows his stuff when it comes to baseball over his multi-decade managing career. Given that he'll only get a half week of games in anyways, it'd be best to keep Manny out of your active lineup next week and wait until you have a few games to go off of before deciding whether or not to play him the following week.

June 27, 2009

According to the LA Times, circus superstar Manny Ramirez went 0-for-3 with a walk in two games with the Dodgers' Triple-A affiliate.

Our View:

Now Manny will get to be Manny in Single-A ball for four games before rejoining the Dodgers. His eventual return will bump recent offensive catalyst Juan Pierre from the starting lineup.

June 25, 2009

According to the LA Daily News, the plan for Manny Ramirez is for him to play seven innings on Thursday night for Triple-A Albuquerque, then travel back to California to play four games with Single-A Inland Empire before returning to the Dodgers on July 3.

Our View:

Manny will have several more games in the minors to get his feet under him before rejoining the Dodgers, but it looks almost certain that he will be in the lineup on July 3 when he is eligible to return. Manny owners should be prepared to activate and start him on that day.

June 24, 2009

Manny Ramirez went 0-for-2 in his first rehab game with Triple-A Albuquerque on Tuesday, according to Yahoo! Sports.

Our View:

Manny refused to answer any questions about his suspension or steroid use as well on Tuesday, simply responding with "whatever happened is in the past," when asked about it. "I'm just getting myself ready to come back." He is eligible to rejoin the Dodgers on July 3.

June 19, 2009

Manny Ramirez will start his minor league rehab assignment this Tuesday in Triple-A Albuquerque, according to ESPN.

Our View:

He will then proceed onto Single-A Inland Empire on June 27. Manny being Manny again is now only weeks away.

June 17, 2009

Manny Ramirez will start his minor league rehab assignment next week. He will appear next Thursday for Single-A Inland Empire. He will likely play three games for them and is eligible for re-instatement on July 3.

Our View:

Is anyone else excited to see what Manny will do against Single-A pitching? Too bad those numbers will not apply to fantasy stats. It remains to be seen how the Dodgers will utilize Juan Pierre once Ramirez returns.

June 10, 2009

Major League Baseball has warned the Los Angeles Dodgers over Manny Ramirez's presence in the clubhouse yesterday according to the Los Angeles Times.

Our View:

Manny visited the team before yesterday's game against the Padres, but suspended players are not allowed in the clubhouse before games. The Dodgers have not been penalized. Manny pledged to take the Dodgers to "another level" when he returns during the visit.

June 10, 2009

Dodgers slugger Manny Ramirez made his first public comments on Tuesday since being suspended for 50 games on May 7 for violating the league's anti-drug policy according to the Los Angeles Times.

Our View:

Manny used the typical vagaries most players do when describing their steroid incidents, saying it was "in the past" and that he wanted to "move on." But he also said he wanted to make his suspension up to the fans by taking his game and the Dodgers season to "another level." A scary thought for the rest of the NL West, and a very comforting one to Manny's fantasy owners. Maybe he'll be making his suspension up to them as well.

June 3, 2009

According to the LA Times, Manny Ramirez has looked very impressive in private workouts during his suspension.

Our View:

An unnamed source reports that, "He looks incredible. The best I've ever seen him." Ramirez has reportedly been laughing and joking around, so he's apparently over the strain and malaise of getting caught cheating. As long as he hits when he returns fantasy owners will likely view the situation with a closer's memory.

May 25, 2009

The AP reports that Manny Ramirez worked out at Dodger Stadium on Monday for the first time since his 50-game suspension was handed out. The rest of his teammates were in Denver for a series with the Rockies.

Our View:

The Dodgers have gone 10-7 and scored 100 runs without Manny in the lineup. He is eligible to return on July 3 and should immediately reclaim his starting job in left field.

May 15, 2009

Manny Ramirez, who is serving a 50-game suspension, met with his teammates and the Dodgers' staff today, according to the Sports Network.

Our View:

Details regarding his positive test were not revealed, but Ramirez stated it was not steroids-related and resulted from a prescription that included a substance (HCG) on the MLB's banned list.

May 12, 2009

The Los Angeles Times is reporting that Manny Ramirez had planned to appeal his 50 game suspension, but quickly dropped the appeal when he learned that Major League Baseball had obtained his medical records. He had been prescribed HCG by a private doctor.

Our View:

Manny is saying that he was using this drug to enhance his performance. Not on the field, but apparently in the bedroom. Either way, he is out for 50 games and he knew he was doing something wrong since he dropped his appeal so quickly.

May 10, 2009

The Associated Press reports that Manny Ramirez met with Dodgers owner Frank McCourt over the weekend. McCourt said that the suspended slugger apologized and the owner encouraged Manny to meet with his teammates in order to do the same with them.

Our View:

This is really the least that Manny could do. He has virtually disappeared since the day that the suspension was handed down. We agree with McCourt. Ramirez needs to stand before his teammates and acknowledge how ignorant he was and how miserable he is.

May 7, 2009

Manny Ramirez claims that the illegal substance (human chorionic gonadotropin) he used was to enhance his sex drive and not to get an edge on the diamond, according to Yahoo Sports.

Our View:

Ramirez does not intend to appeal his 50-game suspension. But his rep will not be tarnished if the substance was not a performance-enhancing steroid used for the field.

May 7, 2009

Updating an earlier report, Manny Ramirez has issued a statement of apology after being dealt a 50-game suspension for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs, according to the Los Angeles Daily News. Ramirez said, "I want to apologize to Mr. McCourt, Mrs. McCourt, Mr. Joe Torre, my teammates, the Dodger organization, and to the Dodger fans. LA is a special place to me and I know everybody is disappointed. So am I. I am sorry about this whole situation."

Our View:

Ramirez is yet another star that has tarnished his rep. The Dodgers currently hold the best record in the majors at 21-8 and are a perfect 13-0 at home - but will be hard-pressed to keep it up without their star outfielder, who was hitting .348 with six homers and 20 RBI.

May 7, 2009

Manny Ramirez is facing a 50-game suspension for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs, according to the LA Times.

Our View:

The suspension is expected to be announced today. According to agent Scott Boras, the performance-enhancing drugs were prescribed by a doctor for health reasons. Either way, a positive test is a positive test. Xavier Paul is also expected to be recalled from the minors to provide depth in the outfield. This is a very tough loss for the Dodgers and fantasy owners.

May 1, 2009

Manny Ramirez was 2-for-3 with a home run, a walk, a double, two runs scored, and an RBI as the Dodgers defeated the Padres 8-5 on Thursday.

Our View:

Manny has not dominated the headlines as he did last season in his stint with the Dodgers, but he is still producing at a pretty impressive rate. He has already drawn 20 walks against 14 strikeouts while hitting .372/.500/.654. He would probably log more RBI if he hit lower in the lineup, but that's probably not going to happen and he's producing at a pretty sweet clip as it is.

April 29, 2009

Manny Ramirez was seeing doubles on Tuesday. He was 3-for-3 with three doubles, a pair of runs scored and a pair of walks in Tuesday's 5-3 win over the rival Giants.

Our View:

Manny is now hitting .366 on the season and has drawn 18 walks already. His power numbers are lower than expected right now, but they will spike quickly as soon as teams realize they can't pitch around him to get to Andre Ethier. His emergence will help Manny owners immensely.

April 26, 2009

Manager Joe Torre will rest outfielder Manny Ramirez, shortstop Rafael Furcal, and third baseman Casey Blake on Sunday. Juan Pierre, Blake DeWitt, and Juan Castro are all getting starts, the Los Angeles Daily News notes.

Our View:

It's just a day off for these veterans. The Dodgers lineup will look a little weaker, but we still don't advocate using Rockies starter Jason Marquis.

April 24, 2009

Manny Ramirez was 2-for-4 with an RBI on Thursday in the Dodgers' 2-0 win over the Astros.

Our View:

Manny has been very Manny-like lately after getting off to a slow start this season. He's now hitting .345 with four homers and 12 RBI. His four bombs also came in a span of four games and he's on one of those patented Manny hot streaks.

April 22, 2009

Manny Ramirez hit his fourth home run in his last four games as the Dodgers fell 6-5 to the Astros on Wednesday. The solo shot was his only hit in four at bats.

Our View:

Ramirez has 11 hits and seven RBI in his last five games. He had a fairly quiet start, but that was back when pitchers were still willing to walk him to face Andre Ethier. Now that Ethier seems to have established himself as a threat, Ramirez is seeing more strikes.

April 21, 2009

Manny Ramirez went 2-for-4 with a home run, three RBI, two runs scored, a strikeout and a walk as the Dodgers fell to the Astros 8-5 on Tuesday.

Our View:

Ramirez has been relatively quiet following all the noise he made after joining the Dodgers last season. Still he is hitting .340/.500/.596 which is pretty spectacular. Expect all his other numbers to catch up and he should remain among the game's elite sluggers.

April 18, 2009

Dodger fans can breath easy. Manny Ramirez has finally homered, and he wasn't done after one. Baseball's most bizarre superstar hit two over the wall in LA's 9-5 win over the Rockies on Saturday.

Our View:

Before today Manny had zero home runs and only three extra-base hits on the season, but it's amazing what one good day at the plate will do for a ball player. This may be the point in the season when Manny turns it up to 11.

April 13, 2009

Manny Ramirez went 1-for-2 with two walks, a double, and a run scored in Monday's 11-1 win over the Giants.

Our View:

Ramirez has yet to hit his first home run, but he already has 11 walks on the season. Opposing pitchers clearly recall the damage he produced last season in a Dodgers uniform and the slugger has not seen much to work with to this point in the season. He is hitting .304 through eight games.

April 12, 2009

The USA Today reports that Manny Ramirez would like to play in Cleveland again before his career ends. "I would like to play for Cleveland one more time, to go back where I started," said Ramirez. "I have so many good memories there, why not? I think to go back where you started is everyone's dream."

Our View:

The Indians currently have little use for Manny as their outfield is both young and talented, and they have plenty of options at DH. Either way, expect Cleveland to come up as a possible destination for the slugger the next time he enters free agency. He spent the first 10 seasons of his career with the Indians.

April 9, 2009

Manny Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a walk, a run scored and three RBI Wednesday in the Dodgers 5-2 win over the Padres.

Our View:

Manny driving in runs in a Dodger uniform. It's like last year all over again. Get used to it people. He'll be doing this all year... unless of course he gets tired of LA.

March 28, 2009

Manny Ramirez went 2-for-3 in the Dodgers 6-1 spring training loss to the Chicago White Sox.

Our View:

All he's doing now is hitting .533 during the spring,and he has gone five for his last six. Ramirez did not play in the field during the game, giving his hamstrings a rest as the DH.

March 27, 2009

Manny Ramirez was 3-for-3 with three singles on Friday. He's now hitting .500 in limited action this spring.

Our View:

The biggest news here is that Manny played left field. The fact that he isn't DHing means that his bum hammy is recovering, and he can truly start tuning up for the regular season. He remains a top fantasy outfielder.

March 25, 2009

Manny Ramirez played outfield on Wednesday for the Dodgers and said that his ailing hamstring is doing well, according to MLB.com.

Our View:

This is good news for the Dodgers slugger who now needs to get focused at the plate and back on track. His offense is what fantasy fans care about and hopefully he can put his leg problems behind him the rest of the spring.

March 25, 2009

Outfielder Manny Ramirez went 1-for-2 with a solo homer in Tuesday's game against the Mariners. It was his first home run of spring training. He has been sidelined by a sore hamstring, but Ramirez is slated to play the field on Wednesday.

Our View:

It's good to see Manny finally back in the lineup. We're hoping his hamstring will hold up as he tries to play a string of games this week.

March 24, 2009

Outfielder Manny Ramirez may be able to field his position as soon as Wednesday, the Los Angeles Daily News reports. He has been dealing with a sore hamstring.

Our View:

We'll believe it when we see it. Manny has little incentive to push himself through this injury right now.

March 21, 2009

Skipper Joe Torre indicated that Manny Ramirez (hamstring) could return to the Dodgers' lineup as early as Monday as a DH, according to the LA Times.

Our View:

Ramirez is expected to be ready for opening day, and the club is just being cautious to insure that his hamstring ailment fully heals.

March 17, 2009

Manny Ramirez noted that he is going to try to do some running in the pool today as he recovers from a hamstring ailment, according to the LA Daily News.

Our View:

He is being patient and taking his recovery day-by-day. The Dodgers will remain cautious with Ramirez, and will continue to hold him out until his ailment completely heals.

March 16, 2009

MLB.com reports that Manny Ramirez will be held out of action for at least another week. He pulled his hamstring in Sunday's exhibition, his first work in the outfield this spring.

Our View:

Ramirez was able to take batting practice and play catch on Monday, but running is out of the question for the time being. Expect the Dodgers to be extra cautious with the outfielder, as he probably does not need to take part in several exhibitions in order to hit during the regular season.

March 13, 2009

According to MLB.com, Manny Ramirez is penciled in as the DH in Friday's contest and will hit third in the lineup. It will be his first spring action since signing a contract with the Dodgers.

Our View:

It's nice to see Manny is going to get some at-bats, but he shouldn't need many to get ready for Opening Day. He seems to have an obvious on-off switch and can play at the highest level when he feels like it. As long as he's happy, he'll rake.

March 12, 2009

Updating an earlier report, Manny Ramirez has been scratched from today's game against the Korean National Team, according to the LA Daily News. He will try to face the Rangers on Friday.

Our View:

Manny is a hitting machine and likely won't need a ton of at-bats to get in the groove anyway, so pay this speed bump no mind if he is back whacking pitches around the yard in a day or two.

March 12, 2009

Manny Ramirez is set for his spring debut with the Dodgers today when they play the Korean National Team, according to MLB.com. Ramirez said, "I am body sore because everybody else is ahead of me. I worked out a lot in Florida, but you have to get used to wearing spikes again. I have to get my running legs in shape. I am Dave Roberts, you know? I am going to be stealing bases this year. Oh, yeah."

Our View:

He may start at DH rather than left field to work him back in slowly. Skipper Joe Torre noted that he would likely get three at-bats if working in the DH role, and two at-bats if used in the outfield.

March 4, 2009

The AP reports that Manny Ramirez and the Dodgers have officially agreed on a two-year, $45 million deal. The second year has an opt-out clause for Ramirez and he will be protected from trades.

Our View:

This was essentially the same offer that was put on the table in November, and we suddenly feel like we have wasted a huge amount of effort to get to the same place we started from. Three and a half months and 100 or so notes from then until now and nothing changed. With the ability to opt out after the season, Manny is playing for a contract once agin in 2009. He will once again be among the best hitters in the game and all of the Dodgers will benefit from his presence in the lineup.

March 4, 2009

Manny Ramirez has reportedly agreed to a two-year deal with the Dodgers worth $45MM, according to the LA Times. The deal includes an opt-out clause after the first year, and has no-trade protection.

Our View:

The story has now been pulled from the LA Times website, but Yahoo Sports is also running the news that Manny agreed to the deal. If true, Ramirez would be worth drafting as a top-15 fantasy outfielder, assuming he will play up to the high expectations of the lucrative contract.

March 3, 2009

Manny Ramirez's four-month long negotiations with the Dodgers may have come to an end, with reports that the two sides have finally agreed upon a two-year, $45 million deal, although agent Scott Boras has denied that a deal has been made official, according to ESPN.

Our View:

Though it appears the contract drama is still not quite over, it does seem like Manny will re-sign with the Dodgers sooner rather than later. While he will turn 37 at the end of May, Manny is still one of the most feared hitters in the game and will provide excellent value, aside from speed, to any fantasy squad. His return would decrease the value of both Juan Pierre and Andre Ethier, and possibly Matt Kemp a bit as well, as there will be only two everyday spots for the three players.

March 1, 2009

The Dodgers have decided to withdraw their two-year, $45 million offer from negotiations with Manny Ramirez, and owner Frank McCourt says the two parties must now start from scratch, according to the Associated Press. "We're in what I call a transition phase," McCourt said. "We had an almost four-month negotiation which terminated on Thursday. Now we're in a quiet period. At some point we'll pick up negotiations, but with a fresh start."

Our View:

The one impasse the two sides can't conquer is how the millions will be paid out. The Dodgers want to defer $25 million that will be paid out between 2011-13, while agent Scott Boras has requested that his client receive payments without deferment.

February 26, 2009

MLB.com issued a press release late Thursday evening reporting Manny Ramirez's agent, Scott Boras, sent a letter to the Dodgers rejecting the team's latest contract offer, which is believed to be $45 million for two years. Dodgers owner Frank McCourt responded by taking a subtle shot at Boras. "We love Manny Ramirez," McCourt said. "And we want Manny back, but we feel we are negotiating against ourselves. When his agent finds those 'serious offers' from other clubs, we'll be happy to re-start the negotiations."

Our View:

Apparently Ramirez has no problem with holding out for more money, even if it means he'll miss at least a portion of spring training while his market continues to get drier and drier.

February 26, 2009

The LA Daily News reports that Manny Ramirez and the Dodgers could be closing in on a two-year $45 million deal.

Our View:

Ramirez would get $25MM in 2009 with a player option in 2010 for $20 million. Ramirez may be ready to give up on getting a four-year deal.

February 25, 2009

The Los Angeles Daily News reports that the Dodgers have once again offered a two-year, $45 million contract to Manny Ramirez. The second year of the deal is a player option, meaning he could elect to become a free agent at the end of the first season.

Our View:

This same offered was made back in December, but Ramirez and his agent, Scott Boras, never signed it and the Dodgers withdrew it. Ramirez is believed to still be holding out for a four-year deal. There are no other offers out there, so Manny may decide to accept this.

February 23, 2009

CBSSports.com reports that Giants GM Brian Sabean remarked that Manny Ramirez talks are on the back burner.

Our View:

The Giants were quick to move on Edgar Renteria and Jeremy Affeldt earlier this offseason, but almost no progress was made with Ramirez. Perhaps they were only trying to create a market for the slugger who seems destined to re-sign with the rival Dodgers.

February 21, 2009

The Los Angeles Daily News reports that talks have "picked up" between Manny Ramirez and the Dodgers.

Our View:

At this point, Ramirez seems destined to play for the Dodgers this season. No word on the length of the deal at this point.

February 19, 2009

Giants' outfielder Dave Roberts endorses Manny Ramirez, according to the SF Chronicle. Roberts won a World Series title with Ramirez with Boston in 2004, and Roberts said, "He was a great teammate. Just look at the back of his baseball card. I think that h is a guy who'll come to play. He is real jovial. I think it was unfortunate the way things ended for him in Boston because he had a pretty good run over there."

Our View:

Roberts would slip further down the Giants' depth chart if the Giants sign Ramirez. As of now, the Giants are not believed to be close to signing Ramirez.

February 17, 2009

Giants' president Larry Baer did not meet with Manny Ramirez and his agent Scott Boras in San Francisco as was speculated, according to the SF Chronicle.

Our View:

The Dodgers and Boras continue to talk about Ramirez, while the Giants wait to see what happens. Ramirez still wants at least a three-year deal.

February 14, 2009

Skipper Joe Torre believes Manny Ramirez will play for the Dodgers this season, according to the LA Times. Torre said, "I definitely would be very surprised if he is not a Dodger. I am just saying that because that is the way I want it to be."

Our View:

GM Ned Colletti noted that talks with Ramirez regarding a deal are moving forward. The future Hall of Famer wants at least a three-year contract.

February 12, 2009

Manny Ramirez postponed a promotional appearance with DirecTV in Florida. The company put out a release saying that Ramirez could be signing a new contract at any time, according to the LA Times.

Our View:

The Dodgers might be bending a bit on their original stance that they would not give Ramirez a long-term deal. Ramirez is looking for at least a three-year contract.

February 12, 2009

Jon Heyman of Sports Illustrated stated that there is belief that Dodgers' owner Frank McCourt may bend and offer Manny Ramirez a three-year deal.

Our View:

The Dodgers' options for an outfielder became more scarce with Bobby Abreu (Angels) and Adam Dunn (Nationals) both finding new homes. Ramirez had a positive impact on ticket sales when he joined the Dodgers last season, and that could factor into McCourt's decision.

February 11, 2009

The Associated Press has reported that the MLBPA will not open a training camp for unsigned free agents. They did open a camp after the strike in 1995, but they have decided that it won't be necessary this year.

Our View:

Many of the big name free agents have started to fall into place, so the number of free agents should decrease even more as the opening of spring training looms.

February 11, 2009

Last season with Boston, Manny Ramirez shoved 64-year-old traveling secretary Jack McCormick to the ground, and according to a new, authorized biography about Ramirez, he did so because he felt disrespected, reports the Boston Herald. The book quotes Manny's former agent Gene Mato as saying, "Jack disrespected Manny for many years and on many occasions."

Our View:

Ramirez's wife also states that McCormick had a habit of insulting Ramirez in front of his teammates. That incident was likely the beginning of the end in Beantown for Ramirez, who remains unsigned.

February 10, 2009

According to the New York Post, Dodgers owner Frank McCourt is still very optimistic his team will sign free-agent outfielder Manny Ramirez. "Well, hopefully we are going to sign him soon," McCourt told the "Hot Stove" program, which runs on MLB Network. "That is certainly our intention. You know Manny had a tremendous impact on L.A. and made great contributions to our run at the end of last season. I mean that love affair was tremendous."

Our View:

With the beginning of the regular season only weeks away, the Dodgers may be Ramirez's lone logical choice. The Giants have shown interest but will not pay him the huge dollars, while big-market teams like the Mets and Yankees have said they are done making deals and are content with the personnel that is in place.

February 9, 2009

Peter Gammons of ESPN states that the Giants "may well be seriously considering constructing a three-year package" for Manny Ramirez.

Our View:

Agent Scott Boras has been pressuring the Dodgers to the point that the club stated they will not draft any of his clients in June. Ramirez is holding out for a four-year deal, but would be wise to accept a three-year offer if proposed by the Giants.

February 7, 2009

MLB.com reports that Giants' GM Brian Sabean maintains that if the Giants were to land Manny Ramirez that it would be a short term deal for far less money than the free-agent outfielder is asking.

Our View:

This seems to indicate that San Francisco is a long shot to land Manny, but they are among the only teams still discussing him. Manny said earlier in the day that he is holding out for a four-year deal.

February 7, 2009

The Los Angeles Times reports that Manny Ramirez is still hoping to get a four-year deal. He also said in the interview that he wants to play six more seasons and hopefully record his 3,000th hit and 700th home run.

Our View:

Should Ramirez achieve those milestones, he could garner some serious consideration as one of the best players to ever play the game. Of course, his questionable personality will likely knock him down a few ranks, but statistically he would rank with the best.

February 6, 2009

The Angels are not interested in reeling in Manny Ramirez, according to Jayson Stark of ESPN. GM Tony Reagins said, "I can make this very brief and very clear. We are not in on Manny, and will not be."

Our View:

The Rangers have crossed Ramirez off their list as well. The Dodgers and Giants are believed to be the only interested suitors as of now.

February 5, 2009

Manny Ramirez has been offered a contract from the Brazos Valley Bombers of the Texas Collegiate League, according to the SportsTicker.

Our View:

You have to love the sense of humor by minor league organizations. The TCL does not offer players a salary but does offer the players the opportunity to live with a host family. Now that would be funny.

February 4, 2009

Agent Scott Boras stated that the Dodgers will resume talks with Manny Ramirez today, according to ESPN. Ramirez rejected the Dodgers' latest one-year offer for $25 million.

Our View:

GM Ned Colletti indicated that the Dodgers do not have a deadline with Ramirez, but added that does not mean they won't have one. The Dodgers are not expected to give in with a long-term deal.

February 4, 2009

Manny Ramirez is not going to land with the Mets, according to the NY Post.

Our View:

The Mets have made it clear that they are finished making major moves after re-signing lefty hurler Oliver Perez. Ramirez may be forced to sign with the Dodgers if he wants to play in 2009, as he currently does not have any other real offers.

February 3, 2009

The Washington Nationals and general manager Jim Bowden said that they are not interested in signing Manny Ramirez, according to MLB.com.

Our View:

Manny turned down a one-year $25 million dollar deal with the Dodgers and is trying to find a home. The Nationals have the dough but never seemed to be a good fit for Ramirez.

February 3, 2009

The Los Angeles Times reports that Dodgers GM Ned Colletti is still adamant about signing Manny Ramirez, even though the eccentric outfielder has rejected offers of $25 and $45 million. "We still have an interest in signing Manny," Colletti said. "These situations can change in an instant and anybody can change them."

Our View:

Colletti also said that the Dodgers have not ruled out going after other available free agents. The way things stand right now, it seems as if the one chance the Dodgers have at landing Ramirez is to sit idly by as he rejects offers from other teams who can't afford him and reach an agreement some time during Spring Training.

February 3, 2009

Expanding on an earlier report, the LA Times reports that sources close to Manny Ramirez say that if the free-agent slugger were to be offered a considerable deal from another team, he would likely not allow the Dodgers the chance to match the deal.

Our View:

The Dodgers' failure to sign Ramirez, which is becoming more and more probable, may mean the front office will pursue other free agents such as Bobby Abreu or Adam Dunn.

February 3, 2009

Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports.com reports that free-agent outfielder Manny Ramirez and agent Scott Boras have turned down a one-year, $25 million offer from the Dodgers.

Our View:

The Dodgers' offer, which was presented to Ramirez on Sunday, is the largest annual salary offered to a free agent this offseason. Unlike Los Angeles' previous offer, which featured $25 million in a one-year non-guaranteed contract, this latest offer was guaranteed.

February 2, 2009

Updating a previous report, ESPN.com indicates that Manny Ramirez and his agent Scott Boras have been given 48 hours to accept their one-year, $25 million offer that was made on Sunday night.

Our View:

The Dodgers pulled their first offer of two years, $45 million shortly after they made it a couple months back. There have not been any other reports of the player receiving any other concrete offers, so he may just have to take this while he can.

February 2, 2009

The Los Angeles Daily News reports that the Dodgers have offered Manny Ramirez a one-year, $25 million contract on Sunday night.

Our View:

This is the second offer that they have made for the elite slugger. Earlier in the offseason, they offered him a two-year, $45 million deal that they pulled off the table. Expect his agent, Scott Boras, to shop around a little more before signing the deal, unless Ramirez steps into the negotiations.

January 31, 2009

The San Francisco Giants are interested in free-agent slugger Manny Ramirez, reports Buster Olney of ESPN.com.

Our View:

Ramirez has been in limbo since turning down the Dodgers' offer of $45 million. He still wants a four-year deal, which does not seem realistic at this point.

January 29, 2009

Albert Pujols is encouraging the Cardinals to sign Manny Ramirez, according to the Associated Press. "Maybe St. Louis doesn't have the money to sign him, but he could give them a discount because St. Louis is a great city that supports its players," Pujols said.

Our View:

Pujols is probably forgetting that Manny's agent is Scott Boras. Boras got Manny out of his deal in Boston so he could cash in on him, so taking a discount just to get his client signed doesn't sound plausible. The signing wouldn't make much sense for the Cardinals either, who already have a surplus of outfielders. If nothing else, this could give Cards fans hope that perhaps Pujols will be willing to give St. Louis a discount when he's up for free agency in a few years.

January 28, 2009

MetsBlog.com reports that rumors regarding the Mets signing Manny Ramirez are beginning to snowball. One theory is that GM Omar Minaya is waiting to sign the outfielder the day before single-game tickets go on sale. Another suggests that agent Scott Boras will give the Mets a discount on Oliver Perez if they guarantee a third season for Ramirez.

Our View:

There seems to be very little to back up these theories, except for a few fans and radio hosts. Single-game tickets for the Mets do not go on sale until March and there would be some legal issues if Boras were to work out such a package deal for Perez and Ramirez. Consider the Dodgers to remain the favorites for his services at this point.

January 28, 2009

Andrew Marchand of ESPN Radio 1050 stated that there is belief around the league that Manny Ramirez will remain with the Dodgers.

Our View:

Marchand does not agree, however, as he feels Ramirez is more likely to land in New York with the Mets, especially if the club is unable to reel in hurlers Oliver Perez or Ben Sheets.

January 27, 2009

New York Mets manager Jerry Manuel said Tuesday that he would welcome the chance to manage slugger Manny Ramirez, according to the New York Post. When asked if Ramirez would be a nuisance in the clubhouse, Manuel said, "Nah, I don't think so. I don't have a problem with people that produce in the form and fashion that Manny Ramirez produces. We shouldn't spend that much time in the locker room anyway. Our job is to be on the field, and Manny Ramirez has proven that he is probably one of the best right-handed hitters of our generation. To have a shot at managing him would be exciting for me."

Our View:

On topic of the possibility of him lobbying to GM Omar Minaya and the Mets' front office to acquire Ramirez, Manuel quietly stated it is not his job to get involved in personnel decisions.

January 27, 2009

The market for Manny Ramirez is reportedly heating up, according to MLB.com. Agent Scott Boras said, "We are negotiating with several teams. The process has begun and we will see where it takes us."

Our View:

Boras would not comment on exactly how many teams are involved, but noted that Manny still seeks a four-year deal. The Dodgers are the only team to confirm having made an offer as of yet, believed to be for two years and worth $45 million.

January 26, 2009

Manny Ramirez is still looking for a four or five year deal at $25 million per year, according to Sports Illustrated.

Our View:

Ramirez is likely regretting turning down the Dodgers' initial offer of $45 million for two years right now. Earlier on Monday, Andy Pettitte signed a deal for nearly half of the guaranteed money that his initial offer from the Yankees included, so this could point to the path ahead of Ramirez.

January 24, 2009

It has been more than two months since the Dodgers offered Manny Ramirez a two-year deal worth $45 million that the slugger rejected, and the team is hoping agent Scott Boras will make his own proposal, according to the L.A. Times. "I'm hoping he'll give us a counter," Dodgers GM Ned Colletti said.

Our View:

It's not known if Ramirez has gotten any other offers from other teams. It seems he and Boras have not backed off on their desire for a deal longer than two years, but with spring training quickly approaching, Ramirez may not have much of a choice.

January 22, 2009

Mets COO Jeff Wilpon tells bloomberg.com that he has not limited Omar Minaya in regards to free-agent Manny Ramirez. Rather, he says that the team is just not interested in him.

Our View:

Adding Ramirez would be a huge boost to an already potent offense, but the Mets are not looking his way at the moment. Ramirez is actively seeking suitors and it's possible that the Mets get involved.

January 19, 2009

The L.A. Times reports that Scott Boras and Ned Colletti spoke for about 15 minutes on Monday, but nothing new seemed to materialize. Boras is still seeking four years, while the Dodgers have not budged from their original two-year, $45 million offer. There is no offer on the table.

Our View:

Boras just has not been able to get teams seriously interested enough to get any leverage in the negotiations. The Giants have been hot and cold on Ramirez for nearly a month, but few other teams have shown an authentic interest.

January 17, 2009

According to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com, Giants general manager Brian Sabean has not completely ruled out extending an offer to Manny Ramirez, although the acquisition of the high-priced free-agent outfielder would mean reshuffling the team's defensive alignment and putting the progress of younger players on hold. "It would have to be short-term," Sabean said. "But more so, we would have to decide what this means for how we put the ballclub around him for the next year or two."

Our View:

Signing Ramirez would likely mean the end of Randy Winn's days in San Francisco. Furthermore, such a transaction would also mean less playing time for 24-year-old left fielder Nate Schierholtz, who hit .310 in 58 games last season.

January 8, 2009

Manny Ramirez is still a top target for the Dodgers, according to MLB.com. "We want Manny, and Manny knows it," GM Ned Colletti said. "We'll just keep talking and see if something can't be worked out."

Our View:

The offer that the Dodger made was for 2-years and $45 million, but Scott Boras and Manny are still hoping for an offer that is double that. It remains to be seen if they will get such an offer, from the Dodgers or anyone else.

January 6, 2009

ESPN.com's Jayson Stark has the latest on the Giants' involvement in the Manny Ramirez saga. Quoting a source close to the Giants, Stark reported that every insinuation thus far linking San Francisco and the free-agent outfielder is "unfounded" or "baloney."

Our View:

Stark also reported that the Giants have nearly exceeded their $100 million payroll for the upcoming season. Currently at $85 million, the Giants don't figure to heavily pursue third baseman Joe Crede, as was previously reported.

January 6, 2009

Manny Ramirez's rep (Scott Boras) is still seeking at least a $100 million deal for his client, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.

Our View:

Rosenthal adds that Ramirez is open to the idea of playing in San Francisco.

January 5, 2009

Jon Heyman of Sports Illustrated states the Rangers are considering chasing Manny Ramirez.

Our View:

GM Jon Daniels is not currently pursuing him, but is yet to rule the future Hall of Famer out. The club needs to replace Milton Bradley's bat in the outfield.

January 5, 2009

According to a report from Yahoo! Sports' Tim Brown, it's now a two-horse race between the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants for the services of Manny Ramirez.

Our View:

The Yankees, Mets, Nationals, Rangers, and even the Rays were mentioned as possible matches for Ramirez, but each had reasons for falling by the wayside.

January 4, 2009

MLB.com reports that the Rangers are not pursuing Manny Ramirez despite their need for a right-handed bat.

Our View:

The market is dwindling for Ramirez. At this point, the Giants seem to be his best potential landing spot.

January 4, 2009

The Giants have reportedly made a three year offer with an option to Manny Ramirez, according to the Boston Globe.

Our View:

The Dodgers may counter with an offer to retain Ramirez, but they were reluctant to offer him more than two years so it's yet to be seen if they will reconsider.

January 3, 2009

The SF Chronicle indicates that the Giants want to wait until the free agent market among corner outfielders is more precisely defined before seriously attempting to reel in Manny Ramirez.

Our View:

The Giants are not likely to engage in a bidding war so they need more financial flexibility than usual from Ramirez's rep Scott Boras.

January 3, 2009

It was previously reported that the San Francisco Giants had extended a contract offer to Manny Ramirez, but the San Francisco Chronicle reports that is not the case.

Our View:

The team admits to speaking with Manny's agent, Scott Boras, but that nothing is in any way imminent.

January 2, 2009

Chris Haft of MLB.com reports that rumors linking the San Francisco Giants to free-agent outfielder Manny Ramirez have been blown out of proportion. According to reports, the Giants may forgo offering Ramirez a deal in favor of addressing a need for a corner infielder.

Our View:

Inking the star to a deal at a price in Ramirez's range, roughly $20 million a year, would cause the Giants to exceed their spending limit. Furthermore, such a transaction would force San Francisco to deal one of their current outfielders, namely Randy Winn or Aaron Rowand.

January 2, 2009

While confirming that the San Francisco Giants have entered the drawing for Manny Ramirez, Sports Illustrated's Jon Heyman reports that the Angels can't be excluded from the pool of Ramirez suitors.

Our View:

Don't be surprised if the Angels decide to at least entertain the idea of extending an offer to the 36-year-old Ramirez, especially after they lost Mark Teixeira to the Yankees.

January 2, 2009

The San Francisco Giants have offered slugger Manny Ramirez a four-year contract, according to CBS5 in San Francisco.

Our View:

The Giants have already signed Edgar Renteria and Randy Johnson, and adding Ramirez would give them another aging player, just a year after they were apparently going to go with a youth movement.

January 1, 2009

The Denver Post reports that the Giants are making an aggressive play for free-agent outfielder Manny Ramirez.

Our View:

Ramirez's asking price may be shrinking as few teams seem to be interested in signing him. The Giants have depth in the outfield already, so adding Ramirez may preclude a trade. Fred Lewis started the majority of the Giants game in left field last season.

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