Read the debate intro and Sports Geek’s argument that Manny should be allowed to go on a rehab assignment.
We at the Sports Debates love Manny Ramirez. At least Loyal Homer does. I love watching him hit. Would I want him on my team? Probably so. Hopefully, I would not grow tired of his “Mannyisms” since I love the energy and swagger he brings to a team. What he did for the Dodgers last year was nothing short of a miracle.
With that being said…
Manny broke the rules and was punished. He was suspended 50 games by MLB. Unfortunately, Major League Baseball really dropped the ball when negotiating the most recent collective bargaining agreement. So, I’m picking the ball up and making it clear. The suspension should include all levels of professional play associated with MLB. The suspension should prevent him from “rehabbing” in the minor league. Sorry, Albuquerque and Inland Empire! He had no business playing there or even being in your cities!
On further review of this case, however, I realize that there is nothing that Major League Baseball can do. In an agreement with the players union, Major League Baseball made a concession that players on suspension for 50 games can play in the minor leagues. The union really pushed for this in order to agree to the 50 game suspension penalty. In my mind, this turns the rule into a 40 game suspension. Yet, players say that it takes awhile to get back into playing shape after sitting out for 50 games. Therefore, they need the time in the minors to get out of “sitting on the couch” shape and into playing shape. Blah blah blah!
We all know there’s one thing players can do to prevent a suspension in the first place!
I think this entire situation is total hogwash and needs to be addressed during negotiations of the next collective bargaining agreement. Yes I know the rules are being followed, but that doesn’t mean I have to like the rules, does it?
This rehab assignment (yes, I am calling it a rehab assignment since there isn’t a better phrase) allows Manny to knock off some of the rust and get back in the flow of things, both physically and mentally. This definitely benefits the Dodgers and only potentially more problems for the National League, especially Dodger opponents in the National League West.
Like I stated at the top, I like Manny. I think he is good for the game. But, he should not be allowed to play in the minor leagues before his suspension is over. I really hope this is dealt with in negotiations for the next collective bargaining agreement. It just doesn’t seem fair, and I hope our most esteemed judge, Bleacher Fan, agrees with me, too!
