Report: Dodgers make offer to Manny

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 25 (UPI) -- The Los Angeles Dodgers made their latest contract offer to outfielder Manny Ramirez, MLB.com reported late Wednesday.

The Web site said it was told by undisclosed sources that Dodgers Chairman Frank McCourt and General Manager Ned Colletti again put forth a deal guaranteeing $45 million for two years ($25 million the first year and $20 million the second) during a 2 1/2-hour meeting at Dodger Stadium with agent Scott Boras and his associate, Mike Fiore.

Colletti skipped the Dodgers' first exhibition game Wednesday at their spring training in Mesa, Ariz., to fly to California and attend the meeting.

Ramirez, 36, originally sought a six-year contract worth $27.5 million, same as New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez.

"Hey, Manny, we need you!" the Los Angeles Times said third baseman Casey Blake shouted.

The newspaper added Manager Joe Torre said he wasn't worried Ramirez remained unsigned, and that he was certain the all-star outfielder was working out.