The Cleveland Guardians have reached a significant milestone by securing Jose Ramirez with a contract extension valued at $175 million over the next seven years. This deal will keep the star third baseman in Cleveland until 2032, a move that not only solidifies Ramirez’s future with the team but also raises questions about the support he will receive in a lineup that previously struggled offensively.
Despite winning the American League Central division last season, the Guardians had one of the least productive offenses in Major League Baseball. The team has yet to make any major acquisitions this offseason, leaving the burden of performance largely on Ramirez and the young core of position players already within the organization. As opening day approaches, the front office remains optimistic about the potential of its existing roster, believing that their internal resources may be more valuable than pursuing second or third tier free agents.
Prior to the announcement of the extension, there were concerns about Ramirez’s future in Cleveland. He had three years remaining on his previous seven-year, $141 million deal, prompting speculation about the possibility of the franchise parting ways with another key player. The new extension, which includes $70 million in deferred payments, alleviates these concerns and reflects Ramirez’s commitment to the Guardians. The deferred money will provide the front office, led by Chris Antonetti and Mike Chernoff, with added flexibility for potential trades or free-agent signings in the future.
Ramirez, who is currently 33 years old, has shown remarkable consistency throughout his career. He previously left an estimated $200 million on the table when he signed his last extension in 2022. The new deal ensures he will remain a pivotal part of the franchise’s plans until he turns 39. While the length of the contract raises questions about his long-term productivity, Ramirez has continued to excel on the field, boasting a .283 batting average with 30 home runs and 85 RBIs in the last season alone.
This performance included a notable achievement of recording his third 30-30 season, joining the ranks of franchise legends. The extension also gives Ramirez additional opportunities to compete for the American League Most Valuable Player award, an accolade he has been nominated for eight times, including a third-place finish in the most recent season.
In 2022, Ramirez set forth four personal goals: to play his entire career in Cleveland, have his number retired, win a World Series, and achieve induction into the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. While the Guardians have not claimed a championship since 1948, securing a path for Ramirez to pursue these aspirations appears to be a step in the right direction.
As the Guardians prepare for the upcoming season, the focus now shifts to how effectively they can support their star player and improve their offensive output. Ramirez’s extension may offer stability, but the team’s success will ultimately depend on the contributions from both established and emerging players in the lineup.