Are we going to see 'Manny just being Manny'... In the majors again?
After an unsuccessful comeback attempt with the Oakland A's last season, he was able to parlay his personality and pure hitting ability into a successful run with the EDA Rhinos of the Chinese Professional Baseball League.
Ramirez took the Rhinos from last place to legitimate contenders of their division, batting .352 with eight home runs and 43 RBI. His popularity was evident, as team attendance increased 412% since he arrived and TV ratings went up 221%.
Despite his success in Taiwan, Ramirez's run with the Rhinos has ended. He signed a contract through the first half of the season, which concluded last week, and now plans to return to the U.S. in hopes of making a MLB comeback.
In an interview with FOXSports.com, Ramirez's agent Barry Praver said they "are in the process of pursuing opportunities" in the United States."
"The reason he decided not to return for the second half was to free himself to be available to play in the United States,” Barry Praver, Ramirez’s agent, told FOXSports.com Wednesday.“This whole thing with Manny in Taiwan was a phenomenon. He invigorated the league. Attendance went through the roof. It was a very positive experience for both sides. Manny was so invigorated by his play there that he wants to return to the majors.”
Ramirez hasn't played in the Majors since 2011, with the Tampa Bay Rays. Would his success in the Chinese Professional Baseball League translate to MLB?
He's a known PED user, but has completed his suspensions and would be eligible to play again. Is he truly off the "juice"?
ManRam is one of the best pure hitters to ever play the game. Can he make a comeback one more time?
Most importantly, would the fans welcome him back?
