One year ago today, the Red Sox traded one of the most popular players in the history of the franchise. Before today is through, they might do it again.

The Sox have reportedly been in heated discussions about a trade that would include Manny Ramirez. Boston’s left-fielder was the MVP of last year’s World Series, and among the most productive players in baseball this season. When he stepped to the plate for the first time Friday night, he was leading the American League in RBIs and was tied for the league lead.

And he was booed by the Fenway Faithful.

How did Manny fall to this state? By not stepping up to help his teammates.

Tuesday night’s 10-9, extra-inning win over the Devil Rays was the most emotional win of the year. The Sox left it all on the field, rallying to win after starting pitcher Matt Clement was carried off the field.

Ramirez? He trotted up the first-base line at one-third speed on a potential double-play ball in the 10th. Thanks to an error, Manny was safe, and the Sox added a run that would ultimately stand as the game winner.

The next day, after Trot Nixon was injured, Terry Francona reportedly asked Ramirez to play on what had been scheduled to be an off day for Manny. Ramirez said no.

“Occasionally, there’s a bump in the road,” said Francona. “We deal with it the best we can. Our job is to get the most out of players.

“Once in a while you have to get a little agitated. It’s not the end of the world.”

We’ve been here before. Manny seems to drift off into “Mannyland” once a year. It’s his annual excursion away from the day-to-day grind of baseball. Whether it’s a quick trip into the Green Monster, or a weekend of rest and recovery from a sore throat, it’s often a frustrating battle to keep this great talent interested in his craft.

This time, Manny may have started a journey that will lead him out of town. His performance in Tampa is the equivalent of last year’s July 1 sit-out by Garciaparra, who watched his team lose to the Yankees in extra innings and never got off the bench.

It was a point of no return for Garciaparra, who would finish that month as a member of the Cubs. Now, Manny appears on the verge of exile.

Forget about “Manny being Manny.” This is Manny being childish and, more importantly, selfish. He let his teammates down in Tampa, and reminded us that talent is not enough to overcome lack of effort.

Lewiston native Tom Caron is studio host for Boston Red Sox telecasts on NESN.