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Report: Former Red Sox Player Hanley Ramirez Being ‘Eyed' in Federal, State Investigation

Hanley Ramirez was designated for assignment by the Red Sox on May 25, but his name is back in the news.

A report late Friday afternoon from investigative journalist Michele McPhee indicated the former Sox infielder is “being eyed" in connection with an ongoing federal and state investigation. McPhee claimed the investigation centers on a Lawrence-based drug ring.

Red Sox fans said they just hope the report is not true.

"I'm surprised," said Ed Baker, a Red Sox fan.

Others said it wouldn't affect their views of the team.

"I'm indifferent about it," said Dylan Willette, also a Red Sox fan. "It doesn't impact the way I support the Red Sox. I'm a fan no matter what."

Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora spoke following the Sox game Friday night saying the organization didn't know about the matter.

Boston Red Sox Manager Alex Cora addressed a report Friday night that said former Sox player Hanley Ramirez is being eyed in a state and federal investigation.

"You know the organization didn't know about this, and I didn't know about this you know. Our decision was made basically on baseball, you know baseball related. And you know I hope it's not true," he said following the team's 14-10 win over the Seattle Mariners.

Red Sox spokesman Kevin Gregg also told NBC Sports Boston Red Sox reporter Evan Drellich that they were unaware of any investigation until asked about it on Friday, and that Ramirez was released from the team for baseball performance reasons.

Ramirez’s agent, Adam Katz, told the Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal that Ramirez is not aware of any investigation and has no knowledge of the allegations contained in the media report.

Major League Baseball said it also does not know anything about an investigation into Ramirez.

Since being released by the Sox, Ramirez has not signed with another team.

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