Manny Ramirez 2014: Former Red Sox Star is Now Minor League Player-Coach, Says He is a 'Changed Man'
Manny Ramirez was involved in numerous controversies during his 19-year MLB career, but the former star vowed that he is now a changed man.
In a recent interview after his appearance at the 10th anniversary celebration of Boston Red Sox's 2004 World Series success, Ramirez admitted that he behaved badly during his time in Boston, but he insisted that he is now a new man.
"To be honest, I've been in church now for almost four years, me and my wife. Now, I realize that I behaved bad in Boston," Ramirez said via Boston Globe. "The fans, they were great. I also played great when I was over here. I really realize that I behaved bad. I apologize for that, but I'm a new man. That's what Jesus said, and that's what I believe."
Ramirez, who was greeted with a hero's welcome on Wednesday's ceremony, was the MVP of the 2004 World Series, but his batting prowess was often overshadowed by his unpredictable behavior.
The 42-year-old former Red Sox, who won two World Series in Boston, was known for his "Manny Moments", which includes having a coffee break at the Green Monster, cutting off a Johnny Damon throw in 2004, and his infamous shoving of Red Sox traveling secretary Jack McCormick in 2008.
The "new Ramirez" is enjoying a new career as he was recently hired by Chicago Cubs president Theo Epstein as a coach and part-time player for their club's Triple A team.
Epstein, a former Red Sox manager, was criticized in Chicago for hiring Ramirez, considering all the controversies that surrounded the left fielder before, which also includes two suspension for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs.
When asked about his new career, Ramirez, a career .312 batter with 555 homeruns, said that he will do his best to give back to the Cubs, while also adding that he, as a new man, will look to instill discipline to younger players.
"That's a blessing from God," Ramirez said. "I can go over there and give those kids my testimony, what to do in the field and what not to do off the field. It's going to be a blast. We're going to go out and have fun out there."
Subscribe to Latin Post!
Sign up for our free newsletter for the Latest coverage!