All-Star third baseman and American League MVP finalist José Ramírez has finalized a seven-year contract worth $175 million to continue his career with the Cleveland Guardians. According to a source familiar with the negotiations who spoke to The Associated Press on October 7, 2023, the agreement is pending a physical examination and has not yet been publicly announced.
The 33-year-old, originally from the Dominican Republic, has spent his entire 13-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career with the Guardians, solidifying his legacy in Cleveland. With this new deal, he is now signed through the 2028 season. Previously, Ramírez had three years remaining on a contract worth $69 million signed in 2022, but this new agreement will see him earn an average of $25 million per year.
In addition to financial incentives, the contract includes a no-trade clause and performance bonuses linked to his finishes in MVP voting, where he has consistently excelled. Ramírez has ranked in the top five for MVP consideration six times, finishing third last season and fifth in 2024.
Since making his MLB debut in 2013, Ramírez has played a crucial role in the Guardians’ success. The team has reached the postseason on eight occasions during his tenure, notably falling to the Chicago Cubs in a dramatic seven-game series in the 2016 World Series. The Guardians have also claimed the American League (AL) Central title in the last two seasons, further establishing their competitive stature in the league.
Ramírez achieved a remarkable milestone last season, becoming the first player in franchise history to record at least 250 home runs and 250 stolen bases over his career. As of now, he has tallied 285 home runs and 287 stolen bases. This accomplishment places him alongside just three other players—Robin Yount, Craig Biggio, and Derek Jeter—who have achieved the 250-250 milestone with a single team.
The seven-time AL All-Star had a standout performance last season, setting a career high with 44 stolen bases and joining an elite group of players who have had multiple seasons with at least 30 home runs and 40 stolen bases. His batting average stood at .283, highlighted by a career-best 21-game hit streak from May 6 to May 28.
Ramírez holds the franchise record for extra base hits with 726 and has recorded 27 multi-homer games. He currently ranks second in both home runs and runs batted in (RBIs), with a total of 949.
This new agreement confirms Ramírez’s commitment to the Guardians and reflects the team’s investment in retaining one of its most valuable players as they continue to pursue championship aspirations.
