[Stu]

Quote: Originally Posted by GBrushTWood

If Theo managed to move Manny Ramirez before the end of July, we should erect a statue of him outside of Fenway Park immediately. I'm not kidding. Manny receives his 10/5 rights at the conclusion of this season, aka - no trade provision in his contract. If Theo does not move Manny by the end of this month, we're essentially stuck with him for approximately $18-21M/year for the next 3 years (at least). Think about the kind of players they could acquire with that saved money. Of course, nobody seems to be willing to take on that contract. I don't think even Sabean is that dumb. The Yankees and every other team had the chance to have Manny for JUST the waiver wire fee at the end of 2003. They chose not to.

Manny is owed $19 mil next year, $18 mil in 2007 and $20 mil in 2008. The team has $20 mil options for 2009 and 2010, which they obviously won't pick up.

I'm not sold that dealing Manny would be a good thing. I'm not sure what combination of players you could sign for that money that gives you the consistent production that Manny does. You'd probably be able to get 1 front line starter and 1 mediocre slugger. $20 mil just doesnt go as far as it used to. I just don't think there are any better options out there. Obviously if you could move him and there was a chance of signing somebody like Vlad, you'd do it, but there are very few players in MLB that can replace Manny's bat.