PHOENIX, Ariz: Jose Ramirez’s road to the success he had at the major-league level last season was not the one easily traveled.
He wasn’t signed to a major signing bonus out of the Dominican Republic. He wasn’t touted as a top prospect. He had to earn his playing time through his rise in the minors. Last season, he was given an everyday chance with Michael Brantley on the disabled list and with it, carved out his place in the club’s long-term plans as en everyday player.
On Tuesday morning, the club officially announced a five-year extension worth $26 million that will keep Ramirez with the Indians through at least the 2021 season.