Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images(KOCHI, Japan) – Former Major Leaguer Manny Ramirez is planning a comeback in Japan. The 12-time All-Star has reached an agreement to play for the Kochi Fighting Dogs of the Shikoku Island League Plus.
For Ramirez, 44, this marks his latest attempt at a professional comeback. The 2004 World Series MVP most recently signed a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs in May 2014. He was released in November the same year.
Ramirez last played in the majors in 2011 as a member of the Tampa Bay Rays. He appeared in five games that season, but only got one hit during that time. After being suspended for 100 games as a result of testing positive for performance enhancing drugs for the second time, he opted to retire instead.
During his 19 year career in the Major Leagues, Ramirez played for five teams, most notably the Boston Red Sox. As a member of the Red Sox, he helped the franchise win two World Series, including in 2004 when the team broke an 86 year championship drought.
Ramirez finished his career 15th on the career home run list with 555 and tied at 88th for most career hits at 2,574 with Hall of Famer Richie Ashburn.
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