CLEVELAND — José Ramírez might be a fixture in Cleveland for the long haul. The third baseman is in talks for a long-term extension that could keep him with the Guardians until he’s approaching 40. According to a source from The Athletic, this deal could be worth an additional $106 million over four years.
Ramírez’s current contract runs through 2028, with paychecks of $21 million, $23 million, and $25 million lined up for the next three years. If finalized, about $70 million of his salary might be deferred, meaning he would receive $25 million each season for seven years, but $10 million of that would be delayed for a decade. He could also earn bonuses for high MVP rankings and other achievements, which showcases his consistent performance.
He won’t have any opt-outs in this deal. Ramírez already has a no-trade clause from his last extension and qualifies as a 10/5 player (having spent over ten years in Major League Baseball, including five with the Guardians), which further secures his spot in Cleveland.
Ramírez signed with the Guardians as an international free agent in 2009. Since then, he has made quite an impact. He’s second in franchise history for home runs with 285, trailing only Jim Thome. He also ranks high in games played, hits, stolen bases, and runs scored, making him a cornerstone of the franchise. Over his career, he has been named an All-Star seven times and has received multiple Silver Slugger awards.
Interestingly, Ramírez was once seen as just a potential utility player. Now, he is on track for a possible spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame, having finished in the top six of AL MVP voting seven out of the last nine years. Just before the 2022 season began, he was almost traded to either the Blue Jays or Padres, but a long-term deal quickly changed that.
This new contract would solidify Ramírez’s legacy as one of the longest-serving players in Guardians history. As the team navigates its future, keeping a talent like Ramírez is key for both performance and fan engagement.
Recent data shows that fan loyalty to star players can significantly influence team revenue and engagement. Maintaining homegrown talent like Ramírez enhances the emotional connection fans have with the team, which is invaluable.
In this day and age, social media buzz around players’ performances can provide insight into their popularity. Fans often share highlights, discuss game strategies, and even express their hopes for contract renewals. Keeping Ramírez around is not just about baseball; it’s about nurturing the relationship with the fanbase.
This potential deal is about more than money; it’s about securing a future and building a legacy. As negotiations continue, all eyes will be on Ramírez and the Guardians to see if they can finalize this significant partnership for years to come.
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