It’s official, Manny Ramirez is a member of the Chicago White Sox. The Dodgers decided to just let him go, and the White Sox will assume the $3.8 million remaining on his contract. It’s a low-risk, high-reward move that only costs the White Sox money, which makes it hard to be upset with the acquisition. Having said that, there are some concerns with adding Manny to any team, especially one that will count on him to produce.
Let’s look at the Pros and Cons of Manny Ramirez
Pros
- Historically great hitter capable of carrying any team deep into the playoffs.
- Has a .915 OPS this season, and a .392 wOBA.
- In the AL he won’t have to play the field, which will help protect his legs.
- Playing for a new contract, a situation which has led to him producing great numbers in the past.
- He’s a better hitter than Mark Kotsay, Andruw Jones, and Mark Teahen, the three players who were previously playing DH.
Cons
- Likes to quit, especially when he’s unhappy. Did it to the Red Sox in 2008, and just did it again to Dodgers.
- Has been on the DL three times this season, his legs could give out at any moment
- Doesn’t fit in with Ozzie’s “steal bases, bunt, rotate DH” style (perhaps that should be a pro).
- Home run numbers are down a little, though US Cellular should help that.
- Could tear apart clubhouse and team at the first sign of losing.
Overall, this is a clear win for the White Sox. They lose no players, get the big bat in the middle of the lineup they needed, and a month long hot streak from Manny could get them to the playoffs. This might not fix the bullpen issues, but nobody can argue with beefing up a lineup that has featured a replacement level bat as the DH for most of the season.
Manny is expected to make his debut tomorrow night, to make room for him on the 40 man roster, Jake Peavy was moved to the 60-day DL. Room will be made on the 25 man roster tomorrow, most likely a bullpen arm.
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