Never underestimate the desirability of the city of Cleveland.
In April, Jose Ramirez recently signed a long-term contract extension to remain with Cleveland. The contract extension came after multiple trade rumors due to teams figuring Cleveland wouldn’t be able to afford Ramirez. Cleveland even told Ramirez they couldn’t afford him.
But when the season was approaching, Ramirez told his agent to finalize a deal with the team at $124 million over five years, even though it was for under market value. Ramirez took such a deal because he enjoys the team and city.
Ramirez likely could have made well over $200 million in free agency, but that wasn’t a big deal for Ramirez. He feels that his life wouldn’t be different whether he has $100 million or $200 million, which is why he prioritized his comfort and happiness.
You have to respect that attitude and recognition from Ramirez.
The third baseman signed a 4-year, $26 million contract extension with Cleveland in 2017 that included two club options that went through 2023. He made $9 million last season and is making $22 million this season. His career earnings are already at $44 million, and he is guaranteed another $119 million. That’s a total of $163 million.
To Ramirez, that’s enough money for him and his family to live off of for generations. Might as well stay where he’s happy right?
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