José Ramírez sets Cleveland franchise record for games played

The 33-year-old third baseman surpasses a mark that had stood since 1918.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:38pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball player in motion, with sharp, overlapping shapes and planes representing the long-lasting legacy of José Ramírez's career with the Cleveland Guardians.A cubist interpretation of José Ramírez's record-setting career with the Cleveland Guardians, capturing the third baseman's enduring presence and impact on the franchise.Cleveland Today

Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez set a new franchise record on Monday night by appearing in his 1,620th career game, surpassing the previous mark of 1,619 games played that had stood since 1918. Ramírez, who has spent his entire 14-year MLB career with the Guardians organization, is known for his durability, longevity, and loyalty to the only team he has ever played for.

Why it matters

Ramírez's record-setting achievement is a testament to his remarkable consistency and commitment to the Guardians franchise over the past decade and a half. Breaking a century-old franchise record is an impressive milestone that underscores Ramírez's status as one of the most durable and valuable players in Guardians history.

The details

Ramírez, a native of the Dominican Republic, signed with the Guardians as an international free agent in 2009 and made his MLB debut in 2013 at the age of 20 after being called up directly from Double-A. He has since gone on to become a three-time All-Star and one of the most productive hitters in the league, twice signing team-friendly contract extensions to remain in Cleveland.

  • Ramírez set the new franchise record for games played on April 6, 2026.
  • The previous record of 1,619 games played had stood since September 1, 1918.

The players

José Ramírez

A 33-year-old third baseman who has spent his entire 14-year MLB career with the Cleveland Guardians organization after signing as an international free agent in 2009.

Terry Turner

A former Guardians player who held the previous franchise record of 1,619 games played, a mark that had stood since 1918.

Steven Kwan

A Guardians outfielder who commented on the significance of Ramírez breaking a record that had stood for over a century.

Stephen Vogt

The Guardians manager who expressed his excitement and pride in being able to witness Ramírez's record-setting achievement.

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What they’re saying

“Every day I'm reminded how deep the history of Cleveland is and how far back it goes, and how many different things they endured. I think for someone -- especially in today's day and age -- to break a record that has been around for so long, that speaks to who José is and what he encapsulates.”

— Steven Kwan, Guardians Outfielder

“What Hosey has accomplished and will accomplish tonight is something truly special that I know he's excited about. I'm just fortunate that I get to be here in attendance to see it. I've been a small part of being able to watch him play during this run that he's had, but it's a special night for Cleveland and for the franchise.”

— Stephen Vogt, Guardians Manager

What’s next

Ramírez and the Guardians will continue their series against the Royals, with Ramírez looking to build on his new franchise record for games played.

The takeaway

José Ramírez's record-breaking achievement is a testament to his unwavering commitment and loyalty to the Guardians organization, as well as his remarkable durability and consistency as one of the most productive players in franchise history. This milestone underscores Ramírez's status as a true Cleveland icon and a shining example of what it means to be a lifelong member of the Guardians family.