Dexter-Sports Prediction Machine: Where will Manny Land Part
8:37 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox
He could be the savior of a major league Squad. If you ask the Red Sox, he could be the demon that tears at souls and the chemistry of a ball club. Either Way, Manny Ramirez will demand a lot of money this off-season. And many teams will be after him. And though the dreadlocks, sunglasses and California attitude are appealing. I'm pretty sure I would pass if I were a GM.
Here is a look at some of the teams that will give Manny the Time of day. This will be a three part series starting with AL East and Central Teams that could bite at the worm and hook Scott Boras lays in front of them.
1). Toronto Blue Jays--
J.P. is trying to save his job and trying to impress the Canada faithful. According to many sources, GM J.P Riccardi has interest in Manny. Adding a middle of the order hitter to his lineup makes a lot of sense. The Jays will also be dumping a hefty amount of money if they don't re sign A.J. Burnett, which seems to be the case. But will Manny want to be the solo media star in canada? I don't think so. It sure would be nice to keep him at least somewhat quiet, but unless they throw way too much money at him, I don't see it happening. Unless he wants to spite the Red Sox, and thinks with him, the Jays are playoff type material.
I also don't see Riccardi putting a full push toward Manny. J.P. Riccardi is always all talk. Besides bringing in Burnett and Ryan, he really hasn't held up to his word. Just ask Rod Barajas. Could you imagine Cito Gaston managing Manny? Oh goodness. That sounds like madness. One thing we do know is that J.P will have nothing to do with Adam Dunn this off-season. Who knows, the hypocrite might give him a deal.
As it stands, I don't see this happening. Riccardi wont mounty up to offer more money than any other team. Plus, Manny a Blue Jay? It just doesn't seem natural, Does it?
Prediction Machine Says: No Money, No Luck. Manny will not be a Jay in '09
Baltimore Orioles-
What? Yes they have a strong inside shot of bringing Manny in. GM Andy MacPhail has a history of staying away from the big contract free agent (trade profile coming up later). So even though rumors have spread that the Orioles are interested, I doubt to see anything happen. If MacPhail were to spend the money, and feels that he is close to being a contender, I have to believe that he will go after the younger Mark Teixeira to man first base. One thing is certain. The O's have the money to waste. But I doubt that Manny Ramirez is in the picture, considering their pitching woes. He would also have to man the DH position, considering Nick Markakis and Luke Scott are better outfielders. The void at first would be addressed by moving current DH Aubrey Huff to the hot corner.
I'm sold that MacPhail wouldn't be willing to spend the money that Greedy Agent Scott Boras will ask for. Unless, it is for the younger Teixeira. It would be interesting though to see if Bobby Abreu, or someone of that caliber, is brought in as well. If MacPhail feels he is only a couple peices away from doing what the Rays have this season, don't be surprised if he pulls the trigger.
Prediction Machine Says: Manny the 'O? I dont see an O in the name Manny Ramirez. But I do see a possibility of this happening. It will all depend on how eager management is.
3.) New York Yankees-
Well if a close friend to Manny, if that even should be considered a source, stated that Manny wants to play for the Yankees next season. Revenge on the main course? I would think that would be the main reason beyond money that Manny settles in New York. And if he performs, Manny can be Manny. Fans won't necessarily be upset if he bobbles a ball, or goofs around in the stadium. Heck, this might be the best personalty and performance combo to come to the Yankees since Babe Ruth.
I think the Yankees have the best fit of any NL East teams, but I am not about to jump on the bandwagon of signing him, much like the New York Post is. Personally, if I were Brian Cashman, I would bring back Bobby Abreu instead. But you know those Steinbrenners. They always have to one up everyone when it comes to free agency. The pockets will be open, and Scott Boras will be shoving the money in his pockets as fast as possible. I expect at least two of his clients to sign with the Yankees this off-season.
Prediction Machine Says: Holy Toledo. Man-Ram, AROD, K-Rod?, Melky and The Firey flamethrower? It's going to happen. Why? Becuase the prediction machine says so. I think the Yankees have the best shot at signing Manny away from the L.A. Dodgers.
"Until Frank McCourt spends an excess amount of money on a free agent that isn't named Andruw Jones, Juan Pierre, or Jason Schmidt, I will not pay to attend another Dodger game." - Dodger Fans United