Oh Man-ny

Here is an image I never thought I'd see, let alone talked about....Manny Ramirez in Yankee Pinstripes. Yet there are several sources this morning claiming that the Yankees are showing some legitimate interest in going after this egocentric malcontent.

I won't deny that acquiring Manny would essentially assure the Yankees a return to the post-season, and potentially even make them the favorites to win it all, but it just seems so wrong.

Never mind the fact that he was a Yankee killer and persona non grata when he came to play in Yankee Stadium. What bothers me about Manny is the way he plays the game and all that "Manny being Manny" nonsense. He disrespects the game. Last year when he refused to run out a potential double-play ball in a key situation in a game when he was still playing for the Red Sox speaks volumes. When he was totally fed up with playing in Boston and demanded a trade, he feigned an injury and insisted that he would not play. Unless he is %100 happy, Manny won't be Manny on the field.

I can't justify rooting for this guy. Not to mention I don't think he should be rewarded with another huge contract after the way he forced the hand of the Red Sox last year with his contract situation. I also happen to think that if the Yanks sign him -- considering their other recent signings -- that it will be overkill. You'll start to see talk of the "Evil Empire" coming back.

I suppose if they sign him, I'll cheer when he hits a home run, or makes a nice catch, or drives in a winning run, but only because of the interlocking NY on his uniform and cap, and not because of the man wearing them.

If nothing else it will make me pine for the days when hard-nosed team players like Scott Brosius, Tino Martinez, and my favorite, Paul O'Neill, were wearing the pinstripes and winning championships.

The Yanks don't need Manny's antics, his attitude, his mercurial temperament and they sure as hell don't need him to win it all.

And if you disagree with me....go ahead and tell me I'm wrong.