Manny Ramirez Exercises Option With Dodgers, Will Play In L.A. In 2010

Manny Ramirez's agent, Scott Boras, has confirmed that detestable/adorable left fielder Manny Ramirez will return to the Dodgers in 2010 for $20 million. From MLB.com:

Boras said Ramirez felt that his comfort level playing in Los Angeles was the overriding factor in his decision, although he had told teammates the grind of playing defense every day was taking a toll on his 37-year-old body and he was tempted to explore teams that might be interested in him as a designated hitter.

However, finding anything close to a $20 million salary in an uncertain economic climate, combined with the baggage of his 50-game PED suspension this year, made free agency an unattractive proposition for Ramirez, who hit .290 with 19 homers and 63 RBIs in 104 games this season.

Is it possible that Manny is finally and irrevocably content with his situation? His temperament is famously mercurial, but Los Angeles fans have continued to embrace him despite his suspension.

Check out our Dodgers blog, True Blue LA, as Los Angeles fans react to an extra season of the Manny Ramirez Experience.