DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – Florida Marlins multi-talented shortstop Hanley Ramirez has expressed his interest to compete for the Licey Tigers in the Dominican Winter League, and is in discussions with the major league franchise.

“I have all the desire of the world to play with the Tigers of the Licey and hope to be able to secure the permission of my team (the Marlins) to be able to play,” the 24-year-old told the Associated Press recently.

Ramirez batted .301 with 33 home runs and 67 RBIs this past season and inked a six year, $70 million contract in May.

“When one has a contract like that, he must take into consideration his team and the responsibility that it means, but I am speaking with the management (of the Marlins) to obtain permission” , Ramirez added.

The All-Star shortstop also confirmed his intentions to play for the Dominican Republic this coming March at the second World Baseball Classic. The Dominican Republic lost to Cuba in the semi-finals of the inaugural tournament.

Original Article (Spanish):

http://espndeportes.espn.go.com/news/story?id=744835&s=bei&type=story

Tags: Dominican Republic