12 time all-star, Manny Ramirez retired Friday from the Tampa Bay Rays reportedly because he tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs. He elected not to serve the punishment of a 100-game suspension.
He proved himself to be one of the best playoff hitters of all-time. His 29 post-season homeruns and 78 RBIs are the most of any player in MLB history for either category. Manny Ramirez; a 12 time all-star, 2002 AL batting champ and 2004 World Series MVP, ends his colorful career with some incredible numbers.
14th all-time in HR (555)
below Reggie Jackson (563)
above Mike Schmidt (548)
18th all-time in RBI (1831)
two shy of tying Dave Winfield (1833) at 17th
9th all-time in Slugging %
between Mark McGwire and Joe DiMaggio
On top of being listed with such impressive names, these numbers certainly validate Manny for the Hall of Fame but will the two failed drug tests keep him out? The bottom line is that he failed PED tests which is more than enough to turn off the writers from electing him to Cooperstown. Thus, bringing an end to Manny’s career and legacy.