A Theory on the Manny Negotiations

So I was thinking about yesterday’s “news” that a deal between the Dodgers and Manny Ramirez was imminent and could happen later this week.  What I found particularly interesting about the rumor was that it apparently had some weight to it, as the attached link to Bill Shaikin’s post at “The Fabulous Forum” on the LA Times’ site indicates.

Here’s my theory: the report was leaked by Boras’ team.  Think about it.  Negotiations seem to have been accelerating over the past few days between Boras and the Dodgers.  Boras is probably wondering if there are any teams that want one last shot at signing the best right-handed batter of the past 12 years, and what better way to find out the answer than to leak yesterday’s news?  If no teams comes forward, the deal could get done with the Dodgers by the end of the week.  If the Giants or another team enter the mix, watch out.

If you ask me, a two-year contract with an option for a third year at about $20-$25 million per year is totally acceptable for an aging, yet still incredibly productive, Manny Ramirez.  Now Ned just needs to bring the deal home.