MANNYWOOD closing its doors - Just three days before the L.A. Dodgers and the rest of the major league ball clubs take the field for the first time against opposing teams, the Dodgers' clubhouse is hit with another episode of 'Manny being Manny'. Everyone's favorite dreadlock sporting slugger Manny Ramirez who's no stranger to the media, made public in an interview earlier this week when he made his arrival to the team's spring training facility in Glendale, Arizona. "I'm not sure I'll be playing next season, but if I am, I know I won't be here [in L.A.]".
Whether Ramirez is putting an end to his stay in Tinseltown because of personal problems within the organization, is not yet known. But wanting to return to the American League as a designated hitter could also be a possible indication. Given Ramirez is already 37 years old, an everyday job in the outfield could result in an increase to the wear and tear in his legs. But when being asked if he would welcome a return to the AL, Manny simply put it: "I don't know. We'll take it a day at a time. I don't know about tomorrow. I know about today. When the season is over, we'll see where it's at. If they let me play, I play." In other words, he's not too concerned with the future just yet and is taking his baseball career day by day.
As Ramirez makes his own rules and writes his own plans already stating he wouldn't be back for another go around in L.A., Dodger fans have to be the least bit concerned considering his arrival put them over the top down the stretch of the 2008 season, when the team made it as far as the NLCS. The presence of Manny in the line-up has made them an instant division favorite ever since. But at the same time, the Dodgers won't have much to worry about with a young cast of rising star players in the outfield such as Matt Kemp and Andre Either. Both of which have gave credit to Ramirez for helping them transcend their game to All-Star status.
Game Over - In other Dodger related news that has hit the world of baseball as of late, is the return of former Cy Young Award winner Eric Gagne. Gagne who was at one point and time of his career on top of the baseball world and among the league's best in the closer role, is hoping to get his old job back. Gagne who has had his struggles as well as his success, is better known for his days with the Dodgers, who he spent time with for 7 productive seasons spanning from 1999-2006 before signing with the Texas Rangers prior to the '07 season. While battling injuries in Arlington, the 3-time All-Star had a short tenure with the Rangers before heading to Boston where he was shellacked. While the American League proved to be unfriendly to Gagne, he then hoped to revive his career back in the NL with Milwaukee. But again, Gagne would run into trouble as he blew 3 saves in 6 attempts, resulting in a demotion where he became a set-up man.
After becoming a free agent following the 2008 season, the Brewers resigned Gagne to a minor league deal, only to release him midway through spring training in part due to another injury. The year 2009 seen Gagne in the Can-Am League (Canadian American League) where he served as both a starting pitcher and a coach. But as recent as last week, the Dodgers have confirmed that the two have reached a minor league deal with an invite to spring training. During his stardom with the Dodgers, Gagne served somewhat as a cult object, earning the nickname 'Game Over Gagne'. Similar to the popularity 'Mannywood' received, fans embraced Gagne creating anything and everything with Gagne's face and slogan on it. But if you ask me, I think Gagne's "Game Over" days are just that, OVER.
Although it's not for sure if the 34 year old Gagne will find himself donning a big league uniform again, but if he does, it won't be in the closing role he once dominated as All-Star Johnathan Broxton currently holds that position. However, he could serve as a set-up man for the 25 year old Broxton. The Canadian born Gagne who's name was released in the Mitchell Report after testing positive for HGH (Human Growth Hormone), said earlier this week "I took the banned substance for my knee and thought it would help me get better." I think it's a bit comical and can't find anything Gagne could bring to the table, other than maybe help fill a few more seats on 'Gagne bobble head night'. In my opinion, the guy's better days are far behind him. But I guess there's only one way to find out...
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