Boston Red Sox: Hanley Ramirez reportedly under Federal and State investigation

After being released by the Boston Red Sox, it was expected that first baseman/designated hitter Hanley Ramirez would find another team relatively soon. However, recent rumors may explain why he was avoided like the plague.

In theory, even though his play on the diamond had faded, former Boston Red Sox first baseman/designated hitter Hanley Ramirez would be able to help another franchise. Although he faded after a hot start, Ramirez had produced a .254/.313/.395 batting line, hitting six homers and seven doubles in seven doubles in 195 plate appearances. Considering the number of teams that could use an offensive upgrade on their roster, and rumors that the Orioles were interested, Ramirez remained unsigned.

As it turns out, there may be a reason beyond his play on the diamond. According to Michelle McPhee from ABC News and Newsweek, Ramirez is the subject of federal and state investigations.

Obviously, there are a lot of rumors related to what these charges are. Likewise, there is plenty of speculation as to whether or not the Red Sox were aware of any of this when he was released. Of course, they are denying any such knowledge, saying that the decision to let Ramirez go was strictly based on his performance in the batter’s box.

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And yet, that may not be the case. According to Marc Bertrand, one of the midday hosts on 98.5 FM in Boston, rumors about Ramirez began to circulate on May 29. If those rumors were starting to reach the media at that point, then it was highly likely that the Red Sox were aware of these allegations when he had originally been designated for assignment. Likewise, these allegations would explain why Ramirez was avoided like the metaphorical plague carrier.

Naturally, Ramirez and his representatives are denying any allegations of ongoing investigations or knowledge of any criminal activity. To be fair, that is pretty much what anyone in this situation would say, unless they were being thrown into the back of a police car at that moment. However, according to further reports by McPhee, those protestations of innocence may well fall upon deaf ears.

If even a percentage of these allegations are indeed true, the Ramirez has seen the end of his playing days. As it is, even if Ramirez emerges unscathed and without charges, he may well be tainted in the eyes of any major league franchise. There are a lot of questions left to be answered, but the details appear to be emerging by the minute.

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Former Boston Red Sox first baseman/designated hitter Hanley Ramirez is reportedly under federal and state investigation. If these allegations are true, then playing baseball again will be the least of Ramirez’ concerns.