Manny Ramirez Reports For Red Sox Spring Training Three Days Early
By Michael Williams (4/2/2007)
Manny Ramirez must have surprised himself too after reporting for Spring Training three days before he was originally supposed to be there. The Red Sox team must have been astounded to see Ramirez participate in a full workout.
Ramirez spent the first day of his Spring Training in a hitting group with David Ortiz and Wily Mo Pena. He seemed at ease and was hitting the balls all over the field. Mike Lowell, Red Sox’s third baseman, said that Ramirez had spent time hitting in the offseason.
The Red Sox Spring Training started on February 20, 2007 for all the position players. Ramirez had been given permission to report on March 1, 2007 on account of his mother’s illness.
As soon as Ramirez reported to the camp, he had his physical and then donned his uniform to make it in time for the workout. Terry Francona, Red Sox’s manager, said that Ramirez was a hard working player and he had no concerns about him not being ready for play.
This is the start of Ramirez’s seventh season with the Red Sox. He still has 2 years remaining in his contract which is worth $160 million. In the winter, there were rumors that Ramirez was going to be traded. However, Red Sox could not find a good deal. Now that Ramirez is back for another season with the Red Sox and with his right knee not being a problem,
Ramirez, Red Sox and the fans are all waiting for the regular season to start. For last nine seasons, Ramirez has consecutively hit 30 home runs and 100 RBIs. There is an air of anticipation within the Red Sox team on what Ramirez will produce this season. |