Hanley Ramirez saw his time with the Boston Red Sox come to quite the ignoble ending earlier this season. Nonetheless, he is planning on playing again in 2019.
When last we saw Hanley Ramirez, his major league career appeared to have sputtered out. After a strong start to 2018 with the Boston Red Sox, Ramirez imploded during May, posting a dreadful .163/.200/.300 batting line with only five extra base hits. He did not play after May 24, and was released by the Red Sox six days later.
Although there was plenty of speculation that he would land elsewhere, Ramirez remained out of baseball for the rest of the season. However, that has not deterred his desire to play again, as Ramirez is looking to make a comeback next year.
ex-red sox Hanley Ramirez is working out in the d.r. and plans to play winter ball before trying a comeback next season
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) October 27, 2018
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Obviously, no player wants to see their career come to an end in such a manner, and Ramirez is no exception. His intention of playing Winter Ball, hoping to show a team that he can still be a productive asset, is admirable, even if it is absolutely necessary given the lack of interest in his services after his release.
The problem is, Ramirez has not been a viable asset since 2016. Even that year could be considered a fluke, as he struggled the year before, a shell of himself after signing in Boston. Overall, his .260/.326/.450 batting line over the past four seasons, worth a 103 OPS+, is far below his career norms.
At 35 years old heading into next year, time is not on his side. While players have been able to have a resurgence in their mid to late 30s, there is little about Ramirez’ past few years to give any indication that such a return to form will happen. Perhaps he can surprise in the Winter Leagues, showing a newfound commitment to the game, that would belie his age and recent production.
Former Boston Red Sox designated hitter Hanley Ramirez wants to make a comeback in 2019. He may be waiting for quite some time before he gets a call, if he gets one.