All-Star third baseman and American League MVP finalist José Ramírez has committed to a seven-year contract worth $175 million with the Cleveland Guardians, according to a source familiar with the negotiations. The information was confirmed to The Associated Press on March 16, 2024, under the condition of anonymity, as the deal is pending a medical examination and has not yet been officially announced.
The agreement allows Ramírez to remain with the Guardians through the 2028 season. Previously, he was under contract for three more years at $69 million following the deal he signed in 2022. With this new extension, Ramírez will average $25 million annually over the next seven years. The contract also features a no-trade clause and performance bonuses tied to his finishes in the MVP voting, where he has consistently been a strong contender, finishing in the top five six times, including third place in 2023 and fifth in 2024.
Ramírez’s Record-Breaking Career with Cleveland
The 33-year-old from the Dominican Republic has spent his entire 13-year career in Major League Baseball with the Guardians. Since his debut in 2013, the team has qualified for the postseason eight times, notably reaching the World Series in 2016, where they lost to the Chicago Cubs in a thrilling seven-game series. The Guardians have claimed the American League Central title for the past two seasons, solidifying their competitive standing in the league.
Ramírez has made history as the first player in franchise history to achieve at least 250 home runs and 250 stolen bases, a feat he accomplished last season. Currently, he boasts 285 home runs and 287 stolen bases, joining an elite group of players—including Robin Yount, Craig Biggio, and Derek Jeter—who achieved the 250-250 milestone while playing for only one team.
In the 2023 season, he reached a career-high of 44 stolen bases and became just the fourth player in MLB history to record multiple seasons with at least 30 home runs and 40 steals. He maintained a .283 batting average, highlighted by a career-long 21-game hitting streak from May 6 to May 28.
Franchise Impact and Legacy
Ramírez’s contributions extend beyond individual accolades. He holds the franchise record for extra-base hits with 726 and has recorded 27 multi-homer games. He ranks second in both home runs and RBIs, with a total of 949 RBIs. His performance not only cements his status as a key player for the Guardians but also as a beloved figure in Cleveland sports history.
As the Guardians look to build on their recent successes, retaining a player of Ramírez’s caliber is a significant move. His extension reflects the team’s commitment to competing at a high level while ensuring they have a cornerstone player in their lineup. With this deal, the Guardians solidify their future and continue to aim for championship aspirations in the coming years.
