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Adios Senor Ramirez
July 31, 2008
As expected this one came right down to the wire. Manny Ramirez finally got his wish. He was traded, not to Florida, but to the L.A. Dodgers.
My first reaction? Disbelief. Yes, all indications were this time it was going to happen. This time around, talks between the two sides became just too messy that to co-exist moving forward would've been challenging at best. It will take some time to imagine life without Manny Being Manny. It will take some time to get used to seeing David Ortiz at the dish without Manny on-deck. Weird. Was there any other choice?
Manny's trade demands are, of course, nothing new. The Sox have dealt with that in an almost annual basis, but you have to think that his "they don't deserve me" proclamation sealed the deal in 2008.
From all accounts the club has supported (weathered) Manny's controversial ways, Manager Terry Francona has stood by his side when I suspect he was in the minority, coddling the future hall-of-famer - much to the chagrin of his team mates. Did the organization deserve the public tongue lashing Manny bestowed on them? i.e., allegations of the ownership NOT being forthright in their dealings with him. In the words of principal owner John Henry, he found the slugger's remarks "personally offensive"
How could they possibly get on pass the trade deadline? They've done it in season's pass, but this time was different.
It became personal. The relationship had run its course.
For those of you who desperately wanted Manny to stay, and I'll be honest, I wanted him to somehow revert back to his spring training persona and remain a red sox forever, but chances are, had he stayed, Manny would've been out the door after next season. Did we really think the sox were going to pick up that $20 million option? Don't forget, this organization did not win two world series titles in four years because they didn't use their business braun.
Will I miss Manny? WITHOUT QUESTION. Could this team ever be the same- get back to winning amidst all the distractions, knowing Manny didn't want to be here - after this latest saga?
I highly doubt it - just ask his team mates.
Manny may not be playing with the Marlins - in his own backyard, but he should feel right at home in Red Sox West.
Adios Senor Ramirez. It was indeed a pleasure to have watched you with the Red Sox. For you heart broken fans, keep this in mind.
Sometimes change is for the best - I know from experience.
--Hazel
-Hazel Mae
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