During the Marlins pursuit of free agent SS Jose Reyes, how many times were the public and media assured that incumbent SS Hanley Ramirez (above, left) was likely to sign off on being shifted to third base? As it turns out, an unnamed source tells ESPN Deportes’ Enrique Rojas that Ramirez — long coddled by owner Jeffrey Loria — has said the opposite.
“Hanley doesn’t want to play third base and the Marlins were informed of that,” the source said. “Rather than ask for a trade, what he has done is to inform (the team) that he does not want to play another position other than shortstop.”
Meanwhile, Andy Mota, Ramirez’s agent, told ESPNDeportesLosAngeles.com he had no comment.
Ramirez tweeted Tuesday: “What I can do now is work hard and be prepared for next season because that’s all that I can control, I love you all !!!!”
Ramirez is under contract with Miami for the next three seasons. The Marlins owe Ramirez $47 million until 2014, thanks to a six-year, $70 million extension he signed in May 2008.
Buster Olney correctly points out that Ramirez’ rotten 2011 campaign was preceded by his turning up for spring training in lousy shape, though failing to mention the (former) superstar’s “indifference” to baseball might serve a greater purpose. Like say, getting his managers fired.