José Ramírez Claims He’s Better Than Barry Bonds Amid Stellar Season
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
According to José Ramírez, the Cleveland Guardians boast an all-time slugger in their lineup – and it’s none other than Ramírez himself.
In Sunday’s win over the Los Angeles Angels, Ramírez showcased his plate discipline by drawing a bases-loaded walk in the sixth inning. Reliever Matt Moore, who had just taken the mound, didn’t give Ramírez anything to hit, delivering four consecutive pitches outside the strike zone. This walk brought in a run, putting the Guardians ahead 5-2. However, it also ended the rally as two subsequent strikeouts halted further scoring opportunities.
Cleveland.com reporter Paul Hoynes remarked that Ramírez “got the Barry Bonds treatment." In a post-game conversation, Hoynes shared this observation with Ramírez, who responded confidently. “I’m better than Barry Bonds," Ramírez declared, in perfect English despite usually speaking through a translator. Over his last 21 appearances, Ramírez has been on a tear, hitting .329 with 10 home runs, 29 RBI, four stolen bases, and an impressive 1.157 OPS. Projected over a full 162-game season, these stats would put Ramírez on pace for a staggering 77 home runs and 224 RBI.
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Such numbers are extraordinary, even compared to Bonds’ legendary career. Bonds, a 14-time All-Star and seven-time MVP, retired with 762 home runs, the most in baseball history. He also holds career records for walks (2,558) and intentional walks (688). Ramírez, on the other hand, led the American League with 20 intentional walks in 2022 and repeated the feat with 22 in 2023. Though he has only two intentional walks so far in 2024, the bases-loaded walk on Sunday seemed strategically intentional.
Through 54 games this season, Ramírez leads MLB with 56 RBI, far outpacing his peers. His performance is cementing his status as one of the premier hitters in the game today.
As the Guardians continue their season, Ramírez’s confidence and production will be pivotal. If he maintains this level of play, he could be on track for a historic year, adding yet another chapter to his already impressive career.
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