Guardians Pursue Long-Term Contract Extension with All-Star José Ramírez
The Cleveland Guardians are working toward a significant long-term contract extension with third baseman José Ramírez. This potential deal would extend his tenure with the franchise through his 40th birthday. Reports suggest that the extension could be worth $106 million over four additional seasons.
Contract Details
Currently, Ramírez is locked into a contract that runs through 2028. His salaries for the next three seasons are set at:
- $21 million
- $23 million
- $25 million
If the negotiations conclude successfully, approximately $70 million of his future earnings will be deferred. Notably, the new contract is expected to exclude any opt-out clauses.
Ramírez’s Career Achievements
José Ramírez has established himself as one of the premier players in MLB. At 33 years old, he is a seven-time All-Star and has received six Silver Slugger Awards. Additionally, he has been a finalist for the Gold Glove Award seven times.
In terms of franchise history, he ranks:
- Second in home runs (285), behind Jim Thome
- Third in games played
- Seventh in hits
- Second in stolen bases
- Third in runs scored
Future in Cleveland
Having joined the Guardians as an international free agent in 2009, Ramírez has made it clear he values a long-term association with a single team. He has previously shared his desire to stay in Cleveland for his entire career.
Ramírez’s commitment to the franchise is further cemented by his status as a 10/5 player, ensuring a no-trade clause for the remainder of his time with the organization.
Historical Context
Before the 2022 season, Ramírez was nearly traded to either the Toronto Blue Jays or the San Diego Padres. However, he agreed to a long-term extension of five years and $124 million, enhancing an earlier team-friendly deal signed in 2017.
As negotiations for his new contract continue, Ramírez could become one of the longest-tenured players in Guardians history. The news of these potential contract talks was first reported by baseball journalist Hector Gómez.
