Cleveland Guardians Secure José Ramírez with New Contract

In a move that solidifies their commitment to one of the franchise’s cornerstone players, the Cleveland Guardians have officially agreed to a new contract with José Ramírez. Renowned MLB insider Jeff Passan of ESPN confirmed the deal following an initial report by Hector Gomez. This announcement marks a significant step for both the player and the organization after what has been an unusually quiet offseason for the Guardians.

Previous Contracts and Overall Commitment

This new agreement builds upon Ramírez's existing contract situation. In April 2022, the talented third baseman signed a five-year extension worth $124 million, adding to the two years remaining on his prior deal. By doing so, the total financial commitment from the Guardians reaches an impressive $150 million over seven years. This contract also includes a full no-trade clause, highlighting the team's desire to retain Ramírez as a key part of their future.

Despite having left some potential earnings on the table to remain with the Guardians, Ramírez has never hidden his strong desire to spend his entire career in Cleveland. This loyalty speaks volumes, especially when considering the franchise’s occasional exploration of trade options during negotiations four years ago.

A Heartfelt Connection to Cleveland

Ramírez's emotional connection to the city is evident in his own words. In a recent interview, he expressed a deep personal attachment to Cleveland, stating, “I owe this city a lot.” Having raised his children in the city and feeling a sense of comfort and belonging, he emphasizes the unique bond he shares with the fanbase. Known for their dedication, Guardians fans have consistently treated Ramírez with respect and admiration throughout his career, distinguishing their support from that received by players in many other markets.

On-Field Performance and Legacy

José Ramírez has undoubtedly been a driving force behind the Guardians’ recent successes. Since becoming a full-time starter in 2016, he has been a pivotal part of the team's success, contributing to seven playoff appearances and a single World Series run. His consistent performance has not only earned him a special place in the hearts of fans but also a distinguished reputation within Major League Baseball.

Since the start of 2017, Ramírez has been recognized as an All-Star seven times and has finished in the top 10 of American League MVP voting on eight occasions. His impressive statistics from the 2025 season alone—hitting .283 with a .360 on-base percentage and .503 slugging percentage, paired with 30 home runs and 44 stolen bases across 158 games—underscore his importance as an offensive powerhouse.

Implications of the New Deal

The recent contract extension with José Ramírez not only reflects his individual value to the franchise but also serves as a strategic move for the Guardians as they look to maintain momentum within a competitive division. The team’s management recognizes that retaining key players like Ramírez is vital for fostering a winning culture and continuing their postseason aspirations.

Furthermore, this deal may set the stage for how the Guardians approach future contracts and builds the foundational strategy as they look to surround Ramírez with ideally matched talent to maximize their potential for success moving forward.

Conclusion: A Future Together

In summary, the Cleveland Guardians and José Ramírez are poised to continue their partnership, much to the delight of fans and the organization alike. The new contract extension not only represents a significant financial commitment but is also a testament to the deep-rooted connection Ramírez has forged with the city and its supporters. As the Guardians look to the future, having a player of Ramírez’s caliber under contract reinforces their commitment to building a competitive team that honors the legacy of their franchise while nurturing the hopes of their loyal fanbase.