Manny talks, walks

Kevin Roderick • July 3 2009 8:00 PM

Manny Ramirez rejoined the Dodgers tonight in San Diego, was greeted with a loud mix of boos and cheers when he came up in the first inning, and drew a walk. Before the game, he apologized to fans (via the media) for missing the 50 games but would not address what he did wrong. Asked repeatedly, he said:

First I want to say that God is good and good is God. I don't want to get into my medical records right now. I'm happy to be here. I missed the game. I'm ready to play.

The Dodgers were significantly less good as a team while Ramirez was out, but still compiled the best record in the league and increased their division lead by two games.

Winning percentage with Manny: .724 (21-8)
Winning percentage with Manny out: .580 (29-21)
Scoring with Manny: 5.55 runs per game
Scoring with Manny out: 4.40 runs per game

Despite his late-game heroics and nine homers while Manny was gone, Andre Ethier's hitting dipped considerably: 222/.293/.438 with Ramirez out of the lineup.

One final time: Video of the last time Manny rejoined the team, in Arizona

Also in sports: Phil Jackson said he'll be back as Lakers coach.

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