Dodgers GM Ned Colletti was interviewed on MLB's Hot Stove show today, with the focus of the interview on Manny Ramirez. He said all the usual things like " sometimes the process takes longer than you want", and "we need to be comfortable with some things, and Scott's side needs the same."
But one statement stood out, leading me to beleive that LA will outbid any team that gets involved in the Manny talks. When asked about whether the rumors that the Giants are involved in the Manny sweepstakes comes into the decision making process in LA to prevent their rivals from signing Manny, Colletti responded "We want him bad enough that I don't think it makes much difference who else is going to get involved.". He did acknowledge that any team signing Manny, whether in the NL West or not, would benefit greatly from his presence in their lineup. Sounds like Boras is winning this chess match.
The last question asked was whether Colletti was still leaning toward a 2 year deal with Manny. Colletti did not say yes, did not say no.
Leads me to beleive that Colletti is confident he can resign Manny, but they are just haggling on the terms of the deal, money and length of contract.
I can see a 3 year deal getting it done...maybe with an option for a 4th.
Yes Boras appears to have put Colletti in checkmate.....finally, and Manny's return to LA appears imminent.