Johnny Damon 'shocked' by team-mate Manny Ramirez

Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Johnny Damon has spoken out after the abrubt retirement of team-mate Manny Ramirez following an issue under Major League Baseball's drug policy.

When confronted by a large gathering of reporters before Monday's game against the Red Sox, Damon said "I figured I'd do it this way because I'm sure I know Manny better than most."

ESPN reported that Damon went on to say: "It's a very sad thing that happened with Manny. I wish him nothing but the best. He was a great teammate of mine, a great player. I was just hoping we would continue to have all the fun we had, and for it to end so abruptly and for the reasoning, it's sad. I hope Manny's in a better place. I heard he's going to be traveling. He deserves to do it, after 19 years in the big leagues, it's time for him to walk away. Unfortunately it's under these terms."

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