Chicago White Sox decline option on Alexei Ramirez
It looks like the Chicago White Sox will finally be moving on from longtime shortstop Alexei Ramirez as the team’s first major move this offseason. The White Sox declined a one-year, $10 million team option on Ramirez, who has spent the entirety of his eight-year MLB career in Chicago. Ramirez will be paid $1 million as part of a buyout agreement included in his contract.
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Ramirez, 34, had high expectations after a 2014 All-Star season in which he smacked 15 home runs and 74 RBI, ranking fifth and fourth, respectively, among shortstops. He was named an AL Silver Slugger for the second time (first in 2010). However, the 2015 campaign saw his numbers drop considerably to 10 home runs and 62 RBI. His batting average also dipped below .250 for the first time in his career.
Ramirez has been vocal about wanting to remain on the South Side, a place he has called home since being signed by the Sox as an amateur free agent from Cuba in 2008. Even though the team option was declined, it is possible the two sides could work out a deal in the offseason at a lesser price tag. ESPN’s White Sox beat writer Doug Padilla suggested a deal in the $6 million-per-season range.
If no deal can be reached between the two sides, the White Sox do have some up-and-coming prospects in the middle infield. Tim Andersen is the blue chip talent. The 22-year-old spent this past season with AA Birmingham. He eclipsed a .310 batting average with five home runs, 46 RBI and swiped 49 bases.
Another option is Tyler Saladino, who saw considerable time with the big club last season, mainly at third base. After a hot start near the All-Star break last season, Saladino cooled off a bit, settling for a .225 batting average to go along with four home runs and 20 RBI. He was also very sound in the field. Although the vast majority of his time was spent at third, Saladino did play 63 innings at shortstop and did not commit a single error.
Next: Phillies Decline Option On Cliff Lee
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