Manny Ramirez Interested in Retiring as a Dodger

Manny Ramirez has yet to finish out his first week as a Dodger and he’s already talking about retiring with the team.

In an interview with ESPNdeportes.com, was quoted as saying he feels “comfortable” in L.A., that he finally has peace of mind after his tumultuous years with the Red Sox, and that he thinks the Dodgers brought him in to play his final seasons on the West Coast (according to an article in The Sporting News)

“I like this city, the environment, the energy in the fans. I think that I’ll play here for the remainder of my career,” Ramirez was quoted as saying.

He added, though, that no contract discussions have taken place.

No Doubt Dodger fans would enjoy seeing more of Manny after this season, as he’s already had an immediate impact on the team – particularly helpful this past series against the D-Backs who are leading the NL West. In his first three games, Ramirez was 8 for 13 with five RBIs. On Sunday, the 12-time All-Star went 4 for 5 with a home run and three RBI as the Dodgers beat Arizona 9-3.

There is definitely electricity in the stands as well. Over 125,000 jerseys bearing Ramirez’s name and number 99 have been sold already and the next home stand will feature brown and blue dreadlocks for sale at souvenir stands. Chants of “Manny, Manny!” are everywhere and Ramirez gets cheers for every at-bat – even if he strikes out.

So regardless of whether Manny retires as a Dodger or not, the fun is definitely back at Dodger Stadium and so is the talk of a division run – and this time I’m not a skeptic.