Two years ago, fivethirtyeight.com ran a story on Cleveland Guardians third baseman Jose Ramirez, calling him baseball’s least appreciated superstar. Fast forward to today, and Ramirez still remains one of the most underrated players in the game. However, if he and the Guardians continue to win games at the impressive rate they are this season, Ramirez may finally start getting the recognition he deserves outside of northeast Ohio.
In a league filled with legitimate Most Valuable Player candidates like Baltimore shortstop Gunnar Henderson and New York Yankees outfielders Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, where does Ramirez fit in? Despite not always being in the spotlight, Ramirez has been quietly putting up consistent numbers and playing at an elite level for the past nine years.
Comparisons have been drawn between Ramirez and Hall of Famer Eddie Murray, known for his consistency and longevity in the game. Ramirez, since becoming a regular in 2016, has shown a similar level of consistency with his 162-game averages of 28 homers and 97 RBI. His ability to hit for power, drive in runs, steal bases, play solid defense, and stay healthy make him a true all-around player.
Even when faced with injuries, like playing with a torn ligament in his thumb in 2022, Ramirez still manages to put up impressive numbers. Former Guardians manager Terry Francona has praised Ramirez as one of the best players in the game, consistently performing at a high level and checking off every box as a top-tier player.
This season, Ramirez has been a key contributor to the Guardians’ success, leading them to the top of the AL Central with a comfortable lead over their division rivals. With a strong run differential and Ramirez on pace to have a career year in terms of RBIs, he is undoubtedly the driving force behind Cleveland’s success.
If Ramirez continues to perform at this level in the second half of the season, there is a strong possibility that he could finally receive the recognition he deserves in the form of an MVP award. As the Guardians make a push for the postseason, Ramirez’s impact on the team and his consistent performance on the field could elevate him to a whole new level of appreciation in the baseball world.
