Manny Ramirez has tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs and will be suspended 50 games starting today. The suspension will cost Ramirez $7.7 million, or roughly 31% of his $25-million salary. Players in violation of baseball’s drug policy are not paid during suspensions. Ramirez is expected to attribute the test results to medication received from a doctor for a personal medical issue, according to a source familiar with matter but not authorized to speak publicly.
With the suspension taking effect with tonight’s game against the Washington Nationals at Dodger Stadium, Ramirez will not be eligible to return to the team until July 3.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a new offer to Manny Ramirez: one year and $25 million, according to a major league source. Dodgers GM Ned Colletti confirmed to ESPN.com that he met with Ramirez’s agent, Scott Boras, on Monday and presented the new offer in person.

Colletti declined to confirm any details of the offer. But the offer was confirmed by another source with knowledge of the discussions. It’s believed that Manny Ramirez and Scott Boras were given a 2 day deadline to accept the offer. The new offer is a step up from the Dodgers’ previous offer. On Election Day, the Dodgers offered Ramirez $15 million for the 2009 season, $22.5 million in 2010 and a $7.5 million buyout or $22.5 million club option for 2011. That contract would have maxed out at $60 million over three years if the Dodgers picked up the option.

Slugger Manny Ramirez’s tumultuous relationship with the Boston Red Sox is finally over.

Ramirez has been traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Red Sox will pay the remaining $7 million of Ramirez’s contract owed for this season. Ramirez, the MVP of the 2004 World Series, remains one of baseball’s best hitters and has enjoyed lots of career-defining moments with the franchise. But his relationship with the Red Sox went sour again recently, prompting the All-Star outfielder to agree to the deal.

Outfielder Jason Bay is going to Boston and the Pittsburgh Pirates get four minor leaguers as part of the three-way deal. Third baseman Andy LaRoche and right-handed pitcher Bryan Morris will go to the Pirates from the Dodgers. Outfielder Brandon Moss and right-handed pitcher will leave the Red Sox organization for Pittsburgh.