Manny Ramirez to retire over drug 'issue'

BOSTON - A shock wave shot through the baseball world on Friday afternoon when Major League Baseball sent out a stunning press release: Manny Ramirez has retired because of "an issue with Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program."

Ramirez, who was suspended for 50 games in 2009 after failing a performance-enhancing drug test, would have been suspended for 100 games if he failed a second one. By informing MLB of his intention to retire, Ramirez stops the clock on any discipline - but he can't return to the major leagues without completing that process.

Ramirez, 38, was 1-for-17 for the Tampa Bay Rays, who signed him to a one-year contract in the offseason. The New York Times reported on Friday that Ramirez tested positive for a PED in spring training and was recently informed of the result. Ramirez left the Rays earlier this week because of what the team at the time called a "family matter."

Ramirez had his greatest success with the Red Sox and retires with Hall of Fame-caliber numbers. But the stain of steroids could keep the quirky Washington Heights product out of Cooperstown.

Ramirez hit .312 with 555 home runs and 1,831 RBIs in 19 seasons with the Indians, Red Sox, Dodgers, White Sox and Rays. He was the World Series MVP in 2004 and was also a key member of Boston's 2007 championship team.

The full statement from MLB reads: "Major League Baseball recently notified Manny Ramirez of an issue under Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. Rather than continue with the process under the Program, Ramirez has informed MLB that he is retiring as an active player. If Ramirez seeks reinstatement in the future, the process under the Drug Program will be completed. MLB will not have any further comment on this matter."

The Rays, in a statement, said: "We are obviously surprised and disappointed by this news. We will have no further comment on this matter, and our fans and organization will carry on."

Ramirez joined the Red Sox as a free agent before the 2001 season. He wore out his welcome with lackadaisical play and was traded to the Dodgers in 2008. As a Red Sox, he hit .322 with 55 regular-season home runs against the Yankees - his highest home run total against any team.

Ramirez formed a fearsome 3-4 combination with David Ortiz, who himself was linked to steroids in 2009.

Of Ramirez retiring, Ortiz said: "It's crazy, man. That was the last thing I was expecting - for him to retire and go through all that situation. I don't really know the details, how everything went down. It's sad to see a player which that much talent and an unbelievable career, to get him out of the game."