Listen Up Manuel

Dearest Manny,

Whats up? That thing you wear under your hat, the rag deal with the big Boston B, it looks exemplary. But I’m concerned about some re-occurring themes involving you. It seems like you don’t care. It seems that you won the precious ring, you’re getting a bit older, and you just feel like hanging it up this season. There’s a contract and a nation that think you should do otherwise.

We have so many memories together, well, not together, but you’ve brought me to sheer joy like I’ve never felt before. Remember that homer in Game 3 of the World Series? Just put the sledgehammer down on those friggin Cardinals. It’s like you said, “no, this is our series, and nothing will stop us.” Represent! And remember that huge hitting streak you had in the playoffs? Even your errors in Game 1 were comical. You’re always there to make us laugh.

I’m not doubting the fact you’re funny and good to your teammates and make everyone else smile, I just think the focus isn’t there. When you got hit by that pitch against Pittsburgh on Saturday, I said to myself, “there is no way he’s going to play tomorrow.” Tito even went to Payton after the game and told him he was going to play. He knows, and we know, that you don’t really care anymore. And it shouldn’t be that way.

It might be a little different if you were putting up massive numbers and carrying the team on your back, but .260 isn’t cutting the butter either. We’re not asking for a triple crown or batting title, but I’m speaking for Red Sox Nation when I say, we just need a little focus and effort from you. That’s all. If you get hit by a pitch, do every possible thing you can to get back onto that field the next day. Please.

The two greatest moments of my life- watching you run in from left field after the Sox won the World Series, and the first time I saw Jessica Alba in person. I just hope that sprint and jump into the team celebration doesn’t mark the end of a historic, hall-of-fame career. Make it last a little longer. Keep smiling and hugging, but when you run on that field, or make your way to the batters box- focus. A little effort, that’s all we’re asking for.

Thanks,
Red Sox Nation