Of course, if Ramirez truly was miserable in Boston, he might have wanted to escape at any price. But no matter how Boras spins this contract, the terms will not meet Ramirez's original expectations. That could be trouble for Boras — and trouble for the Dodgers.

Ramirez, who turns 37 on May 30, should be motivated to play hard, repair his reputation and re-enter the free-agent market next offseason. But by then, the baseball economy might be even more problematic.

The owners held the market largely in check this winter by citing the potential for their business to suffer. What happens next winter after their business has suffered and Ramirez is another year older?

Hate to spoil McCourt's big moment, but no matter what Ramirez tellshim in their planned face-to-face meeting at Dodger Stadium onWednesday, the terms of the deal could backfire on the Dodgers.

Ramirez -- armed with his player option, knowing the market might turneven worse -- could take as many mini-vacations as he wanted thisseason and still force the Dodgers to pay him some $20 million theyear after.

Ramirez's pride might prevent him from pulling such a stunt. But his pride certainly did not stop him from acting up last July. Yes, he still produced big numbers. But the Red Sox couldn't wait to get rid of him.

Ah, but enough about the past.

Manny is out of Boston. Manny gets to stay in L.A. Manny will be happy now.