LOS ANGELES — Juan and Jose Arreola bought tickets for Mannywood on Thursday, not knowing the main attraction wouldn't be part of the show.

After choosing seats for Thursday's game against the Washington Nationals in a special section named for Manny Ramirez, the brothers were stunned to learn that the slugger was suspended 50 games for violating Major League Baseball's drug policy.

The suspension started immediately — Ramirez said he won't appeal — and he's expected to return to the lineup July 3.

"Wow," said Juan Arreola, 22, as he and his brother surveyed the field at Dodger Stadium, tickets in hand. "The team has been perfect so far. I hope they can keep it up without Manny."

Manny-mania swept across Southern California after the Dodgers acquired the power hitter from Boston at the 2008 trading deadline in July. Ramirez made an immediate impact, scorching opponent pitching and catapulting the team into the playoffs.

This season, he was major muscle in a deep and talented lineup that on Wednesday set a modern major league record for a home winning streak to start a season with their 13th straight victory.

Ramirez re-energized a fan base yearning for a return to the World Series, a drought that has lasted more than 20 years. Fans donned wigs modeled after his signature black dreadlocks, scooped up his No. 99 jersey, and mimiced his home run swing. When it came to star sports power in Los Angeles, Ramirez ranked only behind Lakers guard Kobe Bryant.

"He's been so good for the team," said Antonieta Beltran, 60, of Los Angeles, who sat in the top deck at Dodger Stadium mapping out what games she wants to attend this season with her husband. "It's so sad because he's doing so well."

Some fans said they were disappointed but not devastated about the news because the Dodgers hold the top spot in the division standings and most were confident the Dodgers would still be there when Ramirez returns.

"This year all the team has played really well," said Hugo Barraca, 27, of Los Angeles. "I'd say our chances right now to go to the World Series are 50-50."

Ramirez wore out his welcome in Boston, but Los Angeles accepted him with open arms. In Boston, he was criticized for his lack of hustle and for having mental lapses at were referred to as "Manny Being Manny."

But there was no hustle problem in Los Angeles and the definition of "Manny Being Manny" was rewritten. He became a crowd favorite and added energy to a previously drab clubhouse.

The laid-back lifestyle on the West Coast seemed to suit Ramirez just fine. After playing a few games for the Dodgers last season, Ramirez said, "It feels like I'm on vacation."

Fans worried in the offseason that Ramirez might not come back for another season but he ended up signing a $45 million, two-year contract in early March.

"He's been a big help for us," Juan Arreola said. "That's what the Dodgers needed, a home-run hitter with some attitude."

In a statement released Thursday, Ramirez apologized to the fans and his team.

"LA is a special place to me and I know everybody is disappointed. So am I. I'm sorry about this whole situation," Ramirez said.

Outside of Los Angeles, sports fans weighed in on various message boards and blogs. The responses ranged from disbelief to the latest "gotcha" moment to taint professional baseball.

"This one hurts. I was just praising Manny for being that one big explosive hitter who was clean!" said one response at ESPN.com. "NO ONE WHO IS ANYONE IS CLEAN!"

Some Dodgers fans were upset with Ramirez's doctor, who the slugger says gave him medication that contained a banned substance.

"The doctor should have a list for what (drugs) are prohibited," in baseball, said Beltran, who works at a hospital. "I don't think it's Manny's fault."

"Mannywood," a section of seats in left field, may also be suspended. The promotion was taken off the team's Web site shortly after the penalty was announced.

With or without Ramirez, Dodgers fans say they will come to the park.

"Los Angeles has some of the best fans. Win or lose, we are coming to the games," Barraca said.