LOS ANGELES, CA – While standing at the podium, before a battery of sport reporters, Manny Ramirez announced that he reached a 4 year / $61 million agreement with himself. The contract is a break-through for Ramirez who has been finding it difficult to find a team that would meet what some consider a “steep” salary, especially given his age, fielding ability and questionable commitment to the game.

“I think both sides of this win,” noted ESPN’s Peter Gammons. “Ramirez was looking for substantially more for the salary, but this gives both Manny Ramirez the player a long term contract to finish his career and Manny Ramirez the buyer a price that he can afford to sign himself with.”

Manny Ramirez is expected to report home as soon as this week.