Could the heart of the Cleveland Guardians beat with José Ramírez for his entire career? It seems increasingly likely! Sources are buzzing that the team is on the cusp of a significant long-term contract extension for their superstar third baseman, a move that would cement his legacy in Cleveland for years to come.
This isn't just any contract; it's about securing the future of a player who has become synonymous with the Guardians. We're talking about an extension that could keep the perennial MVP candidate in Cleveland well into his 40s. Imagine that! The deal, while not yet finalized, is reportedly set to add $106 million over four additional seasons. Remember, Ramírez is already under contract through the 2028 season, with a solid salary structure already in place for the next three years. If this new agreement goes through, a notable portion, around $70 million, of his future earnings would be deferred. But here's where it gets interesting: this new deal is expected to be opt-out free, meaning Ramírez is committed. And even without a new clause, his status as a 10/5 player (meaning he has over 10 years of MLB service time and more than 5 with his current team) already grants him a no-trade clause, ensuring he has a say in his future destination.
Ramírez's journey with the Guardians began back in 2009 as an international free agent. Since then, he's etched his name all over the franchise record books. He's currently second in team history for home runs with 285, trailing only the legendary Jim Thome. He also shines brightly in games played (third), hits (seventh), stolen bases (second), and runs scored (third). A seven-time All-Star, he's also collected six Silver Slugger Awards and has been a Gold Glove finalist seven times. That's an incredible resume!
Last season, there was already talk that Ramírez and his representatives were keen on solidifying his long-term future with the Guardians. He's openly expressed his desire to play his entire career with one team and has consistently spoken about feeling at home in Cleveland. It's a sentiment that clearly resonates.
And this is the part most people miss: Ramírez was once an unheralded prospect, with many scouts seeing him as a potential utility infielder. Now? He's on a trajectory that could very well lead him to the Baseball Hall of Fame. His consistent performance is staggering; he's finished in the top six in American League MVP voting an astonishing seven times in the last nine years. That kind of sustained excellence is rare.
It's worth remembering that just before the 2022 season opener, the Guardians were reportedly close to trading Ramírez to either the Toronto Blue Jays or the San Diego Padres. However, a long-term deal was struck then, adding five years and $124 million to an already team-friendly extension signed before the 2017 season. This latest potential agreement would further solidify his place as one of the longest-tenured and most impactful players in Guardians history.
The initial report about this potential new deal came from baseball reporter Hector Gómez.
What do you think about this potential extension? Is José Ramírez the undisputed face of the Guardians, and should they do whatever it takes to keep him? Let us know in the comments below!
