For much of the season, Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Hanley Ramirez put up MVP numbers.
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However, as the march to the postseason has grown closer, the Dodgers infielder has struggled. Might that be related to his pending free agency? It’s something manager Don Mattingly believes could be hampering the play of Ramirez, as noted by Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Registrar.
"“When guys get caught in those situations – and I don’t think he’s ever been in this situation, never been in the last year (of his contract) – I think what happens is you just get so tired of answering those questions and their way of dealing with it is …” Dodgers manager Don Mattingly said, concluding with a dismissive wave."
Of course, Hanley Ramirez isn’t the first player to have an expiring contract so that may not be the only reason he’s been struggling as of late, though every player reacts differently to unique situations.
The veteran shortstop (who could move to third base next season) has been rough around the edges with the glove recently and the bat hasn’t been much better as HamRam has only manged to hit .211 over the past month.
Both the Los Angeles Dodgers and Hanley Ramirez have discussed a contract extension for over a year now, though the two sides were last said to be significantly apart on money. Given that, extension talks were tabled until after the season concludes.
Ramirez has stated he’s willing to move to third base, as desired by the Dodgers, though wants the move to be permanent.