Hanley Ramirez began his Minor League rehab assignment last night with the Marlins Single-A affiliate. Ramirez went 2-2 with a single and double before leaving the game.
Ramirez has been out since early August after spraining his shoulder when he landed awkwardly attempting to make a diving catch.
While the initial injury occurred on the 2nd of this month, Florida attempted to rest Ramirez on their bench, hoping he could recover without a trip to the disabled list. The Marlins finally decided more extensive time off was necessary, and made the roster move.
It was Ramirez’s second trip to the DL this season, as the shortstop missed time in early June while dealing with a lower back problem. It was what Ramirez described as the worst pain he’s ever experienced.
Ramirez, like the Marlins, has struggled through much of the season. His numbers are way down compared to his career averages, as Ramirez has only posted a line of .243/.333/.379 with 10 home runs and 44 RBI’s.
After going through a rough stretch to start the year, Ramirez appeared to find himself at the plate in July. Last month, Ramirez hit at a clip of .293/.391/.505 with 5 home runs and 21 RBI’s.
Some speculated that Florida may activate Ramirez after a few rehab games this weekend, but it appears the Marlins are going to take a more conservative path with their All-Star. It’s now being reported that Ramirez won’t rejoin the Marlins in New York early next week, but instead likely return after rosters expand in September.
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