Hanley Ramirez, Boston Red Sox agree to terms
By Tyler Birss
Hanley Ramirez and the Boston Red Sox have agreed to a five-year, $90 million contract, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports*. With money to spend and holes all over the infield, Ramirez is an offseason splash for a team attempting to erase a forgettable 2014 season.
* Update: A few hours after Rosenthal’s initial report the contract details became more clear. Rosenthal, again, reported that it is a four-year deal for $88 million, with a vesting option at $22 million. In the end it could become a five-year, $110 million contract.
This splash does come with substantial risk. Ramirez played in 128 games throughout 2014. He played in just 86 during 2013. Ramirez’s market value was difficult to assess when accounting for his horrid defense and injury prone nature. He’ll take over reigns at shortstop, unless a switch to the outfield is considered feasible.
Another risk is the amount of years given to a 31-year-old with questionable health. How will Ramirez’s body hold up in the final years of this deal? These questions were probably pondered by Boston management themselves. Nevertheless, it’s not surprising that talent and a track record of success convinced Boston of the move.
With the bat, Ramirez is arguably the most talented shortstop in the MLB. His career batting average sits at .300, while his slugging percentage is .500. Offense is down throughout the game. Quality shortstops and capable middle infielders are few and far between. This shortage of talent put Ramirez and his agent in a position of leverage.
From Boston’s standpoint, Ramirez’s arrival indicates a massive upgrade in production. David Ortiz and Yoenis Cespedes are already in the lineup, although Cespedes likely can’t be afforded for the future. Ramirez’s right-handed bat should torture the Green Monster on a consistent basis. And his outgoing personality has a chance to achieve fan favorite status with Boston enthusiasts.
Ramirez will also be returning to where his career began. Signed after going undrafted, Ramirez emerged as an elite prospect in Boston’s system. He played in two games for the Red Sox in 2005 prior to being dealt to the Marlins, who then claimed Florida and not Miami. After an unhealthy stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ramirez returns to Boston in an interesting full circle scenario.
The remaining question for Boston is whether or not they’ll sign an ace. The current 2015 starting rotation isn’t exactly MLB quality. At least one ace or two serviceable hurlers should be added. For now though, Boston has an everyday shortstop. That is, an everyday shortstop if he stays healthy and is given rights to the position.