Imagine having the possibility to keep your franchise star for life—that's exactly what the Cleveland Guardians might achieve with their standout player, José Ramírez. But here's where it gets controversial: even with a deal in sight, the details are still up in the air, sparking plenty of discussion among fans and analysts alike. Renowned sources suggest that the beloved third baseman, who many consider the heart and soul of Cleveland's team, is nearing a long-term contract extension that could see him stay in a Guardians uniform until he turns 40. This potential agreement would solidify his place in the franchise’s history for decades to come.
While the final paperwork hasn't been signed yet, reports indicate that Ramírez may receive an additional $106 million over four seasons. Currently, he is set to earn $21 million in 2025, followed by $23 million in 2026, and $25 million in 2027. Importantly, if the deal proceeds, around $70 million of his future earnings could be deferred—an arrangement that provides both flexibility and financial security for the team.
Another noteworthy detail is that this proposed contract wouldn’t include any opt-out clauses, which is somewhat rare in today's MLB landscape. Ramírez already benefits from a no-trade clause thanks to his tenure as a 10/5 player—meaning he has over ten years of service time, with at least five seasons spent in Cleveland—and his previous contract extension. This status essentially guarantees him the freedom to stay put, providing stability in his relationship with the Guardians.
Ramírez's journey with Cleveland started as an international free agent signing back in 2009. Over the years, he has become a cornerstone of the franchise, ranking second in team history for home runs (285, just behind Jim Thome’s 337). At 33 years old, he’s also impressively ranked third in games played, seventh in hits, second in stolen bases, and third in runs scored within the team’s record books. His accolades include seven All-Star selections, six Silver Slugger Awards, and seven Gold Glove Award finalist nominations.
Last season, industry insiders reported that Ramírez and his representatives were eager to secure a future with Cleveland, possibly initiating extension talks. The player has openly expressed his affection for the city and his desire to stay with one team for his entire career. This commitment to loyalty and consistency has endeared him to fans, and many believe he is on a trajectory that could lead to induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame once he retires.
Interestingly, Ramírez was once viewed as a relatively unheralded prospect, considered by some scouts to be a utility player rather than a superstar. Today, he's a perennial MVP candidate, having finished in the top six in AL MVP voting in seven of the past nine years. Just before the 2022 season, Cleveland was on the verge of trading him to either the Toronto Blue Jays or San Diego Padres—but instead, they struck a long-term deal, adding five years and $124 million to his previous team-friendly contract signed earlier in his career.
If this latest deal comes to fruition, Ramírez would join an elite group of players as one of the longest-serving members of the Guardians organization, cementing his legacy in Cleveland baseball history.
This news was first reported by baseball journalist Hector Gómez, marking an exciting development that has fans and analysts watching closely.
