When the Cleveland Indians went into sell mode this offseason, it was expected that Jose Ramirez‘s time with the franchise was coming to an end. Virtually anyone making any type of a salary was being shipped out, and while his salary is a bargain, Ramirez was easily their highest paid player. For a team that appeared to be looking to pare as much salary as possible, it was a matter of time before he was dealt.
That time may be coming. According to Jon Morosi, the Indians could make Ramirez available in the coming days.
José Ramírez could be available at the @MLB trade deadline, with Cleveland losing tonight for the 5th time in 6 games and falling to .500. Ramírez's contract includes affordable team options for 2022 and 2023, so the club could wait until the offseason to move him. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 25, 2021
Cleveland Indians could jumpstart rebuilding process with Jose Ramirez trade
Ramirez would be a longer term alternative to Kris Bryant. While Bryant is a free agent at the end of the season, Ramirez has two team options worth a combined $24 million for 2022 and 2023. Even with that increase in salary, he would be an extremely affordable piece for a contending team.
The three time All Star and 2020 MVP runner-up has become one of the best all around third basemen in the game. He had produced a solid .256/.346/.518 batting line in his 361 plate appearances entering Saturday, hitting 20 homers and 18 doubles while stealing ten bases. Ramirez would be able to slot into the middle of any team’s lineup.
But he is more than just an impressive hitter. Ramirez has been excellent defensively as well, saving eight runs at the hot corner thus far in 2021, the third best total in the AL. He could also play other positions if needed, having spent time at second and short earlier in his career.
If the Indians are truly willing to make Ramirez available, he would instantly become one of the top players at the deadline. Given the extra years of control, he could even fetch a better return than Bryant, allowing Cleveland to accelerate any rebuilding process they may be facing.
The Cleveland Indians are reportedly considering making Jose Ramirez available. If they do so, he could be the top player available at the deadline.