The Dodgers have made their deal to Manny Ramirez, which is reportedly for $45 million dollars over the next two seasons. It would make him one of the highest paid players in baseball. The problem? It would only make him such for two years. Manny's agent, the insufferable -- albeit great at his job -- Scott Boras, doesn't think that is good enough. He wants six years for the 36 year-old.
"There is evidence of major league teams giving a player that's older a contract for five years," Boras said.
Ah, the precedent. Barry Bonds, in the height of the most prolific offensive run in major league history, was given five years as a 37 year-old. While Manny's second half run with the Dodgers was very impressive, Boras' insinuation that Manny compares to Bonds circa 2002 is patently absurd.
Either way, it would appear the Dodgers need to up the ante or look elsewhere. Surely someone in baseball is going to come a bit closer to Boras' asking price. He's not getting the six years for his zany client, but I'd be shocked if someone didn't give him four.
Dodgers Offer to Manny Ramirez, Much Like His Dreads, Not Long Enough originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 12:33:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.
