It seems like yesterday that the Red Sox shipped Manny Ramirez to the Los Angeles Dodgers at the 2008 trade deadline, triggering the start of "Mannywood."
But it appears as though the relationship between Ramirez and the Dodgers may be nothing more than a brief love affair that could end with the two parties moving in separate directions before long.
The 38-year-old slugger, who continues to work his way back from a calf injury, reportedly drew interest from a few teams prior to the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, including the White Sox, Angels and Rays. But the Dodgers elected to hang on to Ramirez in the hopes that he can provide a spark to the Dodgers’ lineup upon his return down the stretch.
But there are beginning to be indications that Ramirez's tenure in Los Angeles may be over sooner than once anticipated.
The Dodgers are struggling to stay afloat in the NL playoff picture, entering Thursday seven games back in the NL West and six games back in the wild card race. While the Dodgers were buyers at the trade deadline, acquiring Ted Lilly, Ryan Theriot and Octavio Dotel, the team could soon move in another direction if it doesn't start to make up ground.
According to ESPN.com’s Buster Olney, there could be a market for Ramirez if the Dodgers fall to 10 to 12 games out before the end of August. It is unlikely, though, that Ramirez will be placed on waivers until the end of the month because of the uncertain playoff status of the Dodgers and a recent setback in the outfielder’s rehabilitation process.
Ramirez is not expected to begin a minor league rehab assignment for another week or so.
The Los Angeles Times also reported that the Dodgers have taken down the once-popular "Mannywood" sign, which had been a staple on the left-field corner wall since Ramirez’ arrival in 2008.
While small, such a gesture leads one to believe that the allure surrounding the controversial outfielder may be wearing off, just as it did during his previous stops.
If Ramirez is placed on waivers, Olney expects that all teams will pass on the 12-time All-Star because of the money still owed to him for the rest of the season, although some executives expect the White Sox to at least consider claiming him off waivers.
In all likelihood, though, Ramirez would pass through waivers, which Olney said will allow Dodgers GM Ned Colletti to market him to contenders, just like the Astros did with Lance Berkman – eating money while acquiring prospects in return.
Ramirez has battled injuries each of the past two seasons, but has remained an effective presence at the plate when healthy. In 61 games this season, he is batting .317 with eight home runs and 39 RBIs.
