ESPN reports in [with the swooshiest graphics evah!] on Manny Ramirez’s contract negotiations with the LA Dodgers, his only visible suitor.  The first game of Spring Training was played yesterday and I am sure all parties are pushing to resolve the matter quickly:
According to the source, the offer is for two years and $45 million, but it is structured differently than the Dodgers’ previous offer at those numbers. This deal would pay Ramirez $25 million in the first year, with a player-only option for $20 million for the second season. The previous offer had been structured this way: $15 million for 2009, $22.5 million for 2010, a team option for 2011 for $22.5 million or a $7.5 million buyout. The Dodgers had also previously offered salary arbitration,… (more…)