Dodgers Diaries

Manny Ramirez says this is his final season in LA.

Thanks for stating the obvious. Sure, you put up sick offensive numbers. Or you did before you were caught using female fertility drugs. We don’t really know what you’re good for in 2010. But even if you had a repeat of 2008, when you could do no wrong, it’s doubtful the Dodgers would sign you for 2011.

You’ll be 39 by that time, and even more in decline than you were in the second half of 2009. Your antics won’t seem that forgivable if you’re hitting like Juan Pierre, or even like Casey Blake. Your defense will become a bigger liability.

More to the point, you and your agent will be demanding the contract that you couldn’t get after the 2008 season. And the Dodgers just don’t spend that kind of money on old guys. They spend that kind of money on broken down pitchers instead.

Thanks for the memories, Manny, but come the end of 2010, we wish you well in your new career as the Yankees' DH.

-- JOHN ROSENTHAL