Cleveland's Jose Ramirez on Pace to Become Franchise Icon

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jose Ramirez, the star infielder for the Cleveland Guardians, is on track to become one of the greatest players in franchise history. With a recent contract extension, Ramirez has a chance to play 20 seasons, all with the Guardians, joining an exclusive club of MLB legends who spent their entire careers with one team.

Why it matters

Ramirez's potential 20-year tenure with the Guardians would cement his legacy as a Cleveland icon, alongside other all-time greats like Brooks Robinson, Carl Yastrzemski, and Derek Jeter who played their entire careers with one franchise. His sustained excellence and loyalty to the city would make him a beloved figure in Guardians history.

The details

Ramirez was initially projected as a utility infielder, but has blossomed into one of the best hitters in Guardians history. He is on pace to surpass franchise records for doubles, hits, home runs, and RBIs. If he plays out his current contract extension, Ramirez would join an elite group of 20-year, one-team MLB players, a list that includes Hall of Famers like Yastrzemski, Al Kaline, and Stan Musial.

• Ramirez recently signed a contract extension with the Guardians.
• If he plays out the extension, Ramirez would complete 20 seasons, all with the Guardians.

What’s next

If Ramirez plays out his current contract extension, he would become just the 20th player in MLB history to spend 20 or more seasons with one franchise.