The Cleveland Guardians might not be the frontrunners for a deep postseason run in 2026, but there's plenty for fans to get excited about-especially when it comes to Jose Ramirez. While the Guardians navigate a season with some roster challenges, Ramirez stands out as a beacon of hope and excellence.
Chase DeLauter's hot start is certainly worth watching, but Ramirez is on the brink of achieving some significant milestones that could finally cement his status as a future Hall of Famer. It's time for the baseball world to recognize the brilliance that Ramirez brings to the diamond.
Let's break down what makes this season pivotal for Ramirez. He's chasing some serious records, starting with the Guardians' franchise record for total bases. Currently sitting at 3,009 total bases, Ramirez needs just 192 more to claim the top spot-a feat he's accomplished every year since 2016, except for the shortened 2020 season.
But that's just the beginning. Ramirez is poised to notch his 400th career double, needing only one more to hit this milestone. With the season just kicking off, this achievement is imminent.
Home runs are another area where Ramirez is making waves. With 285 career homers, he's just 15 shy of reaching the 300 mark-a number he's consistently hit since 2017. Along the way, he's also set to surpass 1,000 RBIs, sitting at 951 currently, needing just 49 more.
And let's not forget about his speed on the base paths. Ramirez comes into 2026 with 288 stolen bases. Just 12 more, and he'll hit the 300 milestone, adding another impressive chapter to his storied career.
If Ramirez can hit these targets, he won't just be setting franchise records; he'll be making a compelling case for his place among baseball's elite. These achievements would not only highlight his consistent excellence but also help him shed the "overlooked" label that's unfairly shadowed his career.
As the season unfolds, keep an eye on Ramirez. His journey through these milestones promises to be a thrilling ride, and it's high time the broader baseball community takes notice of one of the game's true greats.