Let us look at the good to come out of this...

[Sleeper]

Now we will have a genuine look at the ability of this team without Manny. Many of you advocated a one year deal for Manny, so take this as a glimpse into the future.

Also, when Manny comes back, I expect him to be on a complete tear. You thought last season was something? Watch when he comes back this year, he'll tear **** up.

Finally, looks like we will have Manny through 2010. I don't think there is any way he opts out of his contract... but then again.. this is Manny Ramirez we are talking about.

[2Kobe3peats]

mannys out for 2 months he might as well do 1 more 30 day cycle ..hit the weights and get bigger...then do a 2 week viagra cycle then a 2 week cleanser ..and come back July 3rd a straight beast !!!!!!

[Akagaminosteven]

It's a ****** situation no matter how you look at it, but the negative publicity gives him less reason to opt out.

[DodgerLakerFin]

Sleeper excellent point. All this stuff going on is just gonna help our young guys mature sooner.

[RyanWeber]

I agree that Manny is going to tear it up. There is no way we are going to give up this lead. We have GREAT talent on this team and this year hasn't been JUST Manny. We will be fine!! Dont worry.

[Sophi127]

Looking at this in a brighter sense this is the time for Dodger youngsters to show they can carry the team. Even though Kemp has been in a serious slump, he is Manny's closest friend on the team, and he should step it up the most. He has been unbelievable on defense he just needs to put his offense in order and show he is the teams 4th hitter. Ethier should also be motivated to prove that Manny isnt the only reason he has been tearing the cover off the ball. Loney needs to step up and hit for a higher average and forget about the long ball, its just not part of his game. We have Billingsley that has looked like a true ace and should lcontinu to lead our staff. Broxton needs to also continue to show dominant stuff. Personally im not worried because this is the time to see the young Dodgers shine.

[B.G.B]

Wasn't the contract that if he missed a certain amount of games then
the 2nd year of the contract will automatically become mandatory and Manny can't
opt out of the contract????

[LA Faithful]

I heard that Manny will be losing about $7million from this year's salary. Does that go back into McCourt's pocket with the possibility of using it to sign our SP for the stretch run (I hope that's what he'd do)?

I guess that's one positive if that's true.

[Statik1]

I hope Ned doesnt get crazy and start pulling deals.....

[mOrphosis]

I wouldn't be surprised if Manny is released at some point when all this is all played out. I just don't see Manny stepping right back into the lineup and everyone forgiving him.

If McCourt has shown one thing during his tenure as owner, he truly believes that the Los Angeles Dodgers and "integrity" should always go hand in hand. All the bad seeds have been systematically shown the door...and after all the off-season back and forth with Manny signing, I just don't see McCourt allowing his, nor the Dodgers, reputation be associated with PEDs.

[VAMataman]

I agree that this does not ruin our season. I feel the team we have offensively will still be very strong and will keep us well in front of the rest of the NL West until Manny returns.

One additional potential benefit is that Pierre could enhance his trade value come end of July. Pierre will be the starting LF for most games until Manny returns. If Pierre can step up and perform to his capabilities (possible the way he's playing thus far this year), it might give us ammunition for teams looking for a good leadoff hitter.

[southerndodgerf]

I do not see us releasing him. I see a public apology with an explanation (whether true or not is something else). I think McCourt will see this as an opportunity to appease fans and stil seem like a good owner because he will say that they will "walk with Manny through this" or something to that effect. Besides, teams like the Giants would grab him with open arms.

[NomarsOnlyHR]

There really will not be any way to appease fans on this one. Many Dodger fans will forgive Manny, but most will always harbor some resentment, myself included. For me, it just became nearly impossible to ever root for Manny again.

[The 6-4-3]

**** THAT, i am rooting for Manny all the way THIS IS L.A
more people fall form grace and come back stronger, and MORE loved
look at all the doped out actors and how they have COMEBACKS and are more loved
ex. Robert Downy Jr. ***** was a Heroin addict and NOW LOOK AT HIM, every one loves him and wants him
SAME WITH MANNY

oh and with the 7-8 M we are going to get back WHY NOT GO AFTER PEDRO?

[NomarsOnlyHR]

Robert Downey didn't screw anyone over other than himself. Manny let all of his team down, not to mention the fans that had such high hopes for this season.