Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Los Angeles Dodgers get rid of 'Mannywood' sign in left field

LOS ANGELES -- Left field at Dodger Stadium is no longer "Mannywood." The Dodgers have sold the ad space along the left field wall where the famous sign promoting Manny Ramirez has been for the past two seasons to John Hancock and radio station KABC.

They have not however, traded, waived or dropped Ramirez, who is currently on the disabled list with a strained calf.

"That space has been for sale all season. We recently sold it so that's why the sign is no longer there," Dodgers spokesman Josh Rawitch said. "The promotion is still available for purchase, the two T-shirts and two tickets in that section for $99 is still in place."

Ramirez has struggled mightily with leg injuries this season. This is his third trip to the disabled list this year. He has hit .317 with eight home runs and 39 RBIs in 61 games.

Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti acknowledged over the weekend that several clubs had called to inquire about his availability before Saturday's trading deadline, but said none of the deals were strong enough for the team to part with Ramirez.

Ramirez could still be waived and then traded to another club, but he isn't eligible to be placed on waivers until he comes off the DL. It's unlikely another team would want to assume the full remaining portion of his $20 million contract this year.

Ramona Shelburne is a columnist and reporter for ESPNLosAngeles.com.

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