Alexei Ramírez: Difference between revisions
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{{short description|Cuban baseball player (born 1981)}} |
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{{for|the [[Yokohama DeNA BayStars]] player|Alex Ramirez}} |
{{for|the [[Yokohama DeNA BayStars]] player|Alex Ramirez}} |
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{{Use mdy dates|date=June 2024}} |
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{{ |
{{family name hatnote|Ramírez|Rodriguez|lang=Spanish}} |
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{{Infobox baseball biography |
{{Infobox baseball biography |
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| name = Alexei Ramírez |
| name = Alexei Ramírez |
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| image_size = 240px |
| image_size = 240px |
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| caption = Ramírez with the Chicago White Sox |
| caption = Ramírez with the Chicago White Sox |
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| team = |
| team = |
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| number = |
| number = |
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| position = [[Shortstop |
| position = [[Shortstop]] |
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| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1981|9|22}} |
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1981|9|22}} |
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| birth_place = [[Pinar del Río]], [[Cuba]] |
| birth_place = [[Pinar del Río]], [[Cuba]] |
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| debutyear = 2008 |
| debutyear = 2008 |
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| debutteam = Chicago White Sox |
| debutteam = Chicago White Sox |
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| finalleague = MLB |
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| ⚫ | |||
| finaldate = October 2 |
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| ⚫ | |||
| finalteam = Tampa Bay Rays |
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| statleague = MLB |
| statleague = MLB |
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| stat1label = [[Batting average]] |
| stat1label = [[Batting average (baseball)|Batting average]] |
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| stat1value = .270 |
| stat1value = .270 |
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| stat2label = [[Home run]]s |
| stat2label = [[Home run]]s |
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| awards = |
| awards = |
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* [[Major League Baseball All-Star Game|All-Star]] ([[2014 Major League Baseball All-Star Game|2014]]) |
* [[Major League Baseball All-Star Game|All-Star]] ([[2014 Major League Baseball All-Star Game|2014]]) |
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* |
* 2× [[Silver Slugger Award]] (2010, 2014) |
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|medaltemplates= |
|medaltemplates= |
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{{MedalSport | Men's [[baseball]]}} |
{{MedalSport | Men's [[baseball]]}} |
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{{MedalCountry | {{CUB}}}} |
{{MedalCountry | {{CUB}}}} |
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{{MedalCompetition | [[World Baseball Classic]] }} |
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{{MedalSilver | [[2006 World Baseball Classic|2006 San Diego]] | [[Cuba national baseball team|Team]] }} |
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{{MedalCompetition | [[Summer Olympics|Olympic Games]]}} |
{{MedalCompetition | [[Summer Olympics|Olympic Games]]}} |
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{{MedalGold | [[Baseball at the 2004 Summer Olympics|2004 Athens]] | [[Cuba national baseball team|Team]]}} |
{{MedalGold | [[Baseball at the 2004 Summer Olympics|2004 Athens]] | [[Cuba national baseball team|Team]]}} |
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}} |
}} |
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'''Alexei Fernando Ramírez Rodriguez''' (born September 22, 1981) is a [[Cuba]]n [[professional baseball]] [[shortstop]] |
'''Alexei Fernando Ramírez Rodriguez''' (born September 22, 1981) is a [[Cuba]]n former [[professional baseball]] [[shortstop]]. He has played for the [[Chicago White Sox]], [[San Diego Padres]] and [[Tampa Bay Rays]] in MLB and [[Pinar del Río (baseball)|Pinar del Rio]] of the [[Cuban National Series]]. His nickname, given to him by former White Sox manager [[Ozzie Guillén]], is "'''the Cuban Missile'''" due to his tall, slim physique and combination of speed, power, and strong throwing arm. Ramírez batted and threw right-handed. |
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==Early career== |
==Early career== |
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In seven years |
In seven years of baseball in the [[Cuban National Series]], Ramírez spent most of his time playing [[shortstop]] and [[outfield]] for [[Pinar del Río (baseball)|Pinar del Rio]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Alexei Ramírez Cuban, Winter & Minor Leagues Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=ramire005ale |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=[[Baseball-Reference.com]] |language=en}}</ref> He had a batting average of .332 in Cuba, and led the league in 2007 with 20 home runs while posting a .335 average.<ref name=":0" /> Ramírez played [[Center fielder|center field]] for Cuba at the [[2006 World Baseball Classic]], collecting six hits in 16 at-bats and impressing [[Major League Baseball]] scouts in the process. |
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==Professional career== |
==Professional career== |
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===Chicago White Sox=== |
===Chicago White Sox=== |
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In September 2007, Ramírez left Cuba to apply for citizenship in the [[Dominican Republic]], and also apply to Major League Baseball to enter free agency, according to his agent, Jaime Torres. He auditioned for many baseball teams before coming to an agreement on a four-year contract with the [[Chicago White Sox]] on December 21, 2007.<ref name="Rojas"> |
In September 2007, Ramírez left Cuba to apply for citizenship in the [[Dominican Republic]], and also apply to Major League Baseball to enter free agency, according to his agent, Jaime Torres. He auditioned for many baseball teams before coming to an agreement on a four-year, $8 million contract with the [[Chicago White Sox]] on December 21, 2007.<ref name="Rojas">{{Cite web |last=Rojas |first=Enrique |date=December 22, 2007 |title=ChiSox ink Cuban star Ramírez to four-year deal |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=3165952 |access-date=October 10, 2017 |website=[[ESPN]] |language=en}}</ref> |
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====2008 season==== |
====2008 season==== |
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Ramírez made his MLB debut on March 31, 2008.<ref |
Ramírez made his MLB debut on March 31, 2008 against the [[Cleveland Indians]], finishing the game 0-for-4 as the starting center fielder.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 31, 2008 |title=Chicago White Sox at Cleveland Indians Box Score, March 31, 2008 |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/CLE/CLE200803310.shtml |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=[[Baseball-Reference.com]] |language=en}}</ref> He recorded his first major league hit on April 2,<ref name="08 Gamelogs">{{cite web |title=Alexei Ramirez 2008 Batting Gamelogs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=ramiral03&t=b&year=2008 |access-date=May 4, 2017 |website=[[Baseball-Reference.com]] |publisher=[[Sports Reference]]}}</ref> a single off Indians reliever [[Jorge Julio]].<ref>{{cite web |date=April 2, 2008 |title=Chicago White Sox at Cleveland Indians Box Score, April 2, 2008 |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/CLE/CLE200804020.shtml |access-date=May 4, 2017 |website=[[Baseball-Reference.com]] |publisher=[[Sports Reference]]}}</ref> Ramírez hit his first major league home run on May 16,<ref name="08 Gamelogs"/> off [[San Francisco Giants]] reliever [[Billy Sadler]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Chicago White Sox at San Francisco Giants Box Score, May 16, 2008 |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/SFN/SFN200805160.shtml |access-date=May 4, 2017 |website=[[Baseball-Reference.com]] |publisher=[[Sports Reference]]}}</ref> |
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Ramírez hit his first career [[grand slam (baseball)|grand slam]] on July 22, 2008.<ref name="Nippert"> |
Ramírez hit his first career [[grand slam (baseball)|grand slam]] on July 22, 2008.<ref name="Nippert">{{Cite web |date=July 22, 2008 |title=Ramirez cracks first career grand slam while Buehrle handles Rangers in win |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=280722104 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160129074155/http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=280722104 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 29, 2016 |access-date=August 18, 2012 |website=[[ESPN]] |language=en}}</ref> On September 19, Ramírez hit his third grand slam of the season off of pitcher [[Brian Bannister]] of the [[Kansas City Royals]], tying an American League rookie record set by [[Shane Spencer]] of the [[New York Yankees]] in 1998. It was the White Sox's eleventh grand slam of the season, equaling the previous club record from 2006.<ref name="Bannister">{{Cite web |date=September 19, 2008 |title=Ramirez's grand slam, Wise's two homers power White Sox past Royals |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=280919107 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080923083815/http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=280919107 |url-status=dead |archive-date=September 23, 2008 |access-date=August 16, 2012 |website=[[ESPN]] |publisher=[[Associated Press]] |language=en}}</ref> On September 29, Ramírez hit his fourth grand slam of the season, setting a major-league single-season record for a rookie,<ref>{{cite web |date=September 29, 2008 |title=Grand Slam Records |url=http://www.baseball-almanac.com/recbooks/rb_grsl.shtml |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081028180040/http://www.baseball-almanac.com/recbooks/rb_grsl.shtml |archive-date=October 28, 2008 |access-date=September 29, 2008 |website=[[Baseball Almanac]]}}</ref> off of [[Detroit Tigers]] pitcher [[Gary Glover]] in an 8–2 Sox victory to qualify the Sox for a [[2008 American League Central tie-breaker game|one-game tiebreaker]] against the [[Minnesota Twins]] for the AL Central title. This also broke the team record for most grand slams in a single season.<ref name="Glover">{{Cite web |date=September 29, 2008 |title=Ramirez's grand slam paves way as White Sox force tiebreaker with Twins |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=280929104 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081001112008/http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=280929104 |url-status=dead |archive-date=October 1, 2008 |access-date=August 16, 2012 |website=[[ESPN]] |publisher=[[Associated Press]] |language=en}}</ref> |
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[[File:Alexei Ramirez, Adam Jones, Scott Barry.jpg|thumb|Ramírez with [[Adam Jones (baseball)|Adam Jones]] and umpire [[Scott Barry]] in 2009.]] |
[[File:Alexei Ramirez, Adam Jones, Scott Barry.jpg|thumb|Ramírez with [[Adam Jones (baseball)|Adam Jones]] and umpire [[Scott Barry]] in 2009.]] |
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During his first season in the Majors, Ramírez excelled both offensively and in the field, despite primarily playing second base instead of his customary shortstop position. Over 136 games, he posted a .290 batting average, hitting 21 homers and |
During his first season in the Majors, Ramírez excelled both offensively and in the field, despite primarily playing second base instead of his customary shortstop position. Over 136 games, he posted a .290 batting average, hitting 21 homers and recording 77 RBI.<ref name="B-Ref">{{cite web |title=Alexei Ramirez Stats |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/ramiral03.shtml |access-date=May 4, 2017 |website=[[Baseball-Reference.com]] |publisher=[[Sports Reference]]}}</ref> He finished in second place in the voting for [[American League]] [[Major League Baseball Rookie of the Year Award|Rookie of the Year]] honors, losing to [[Evan Longoria]] of the [[Tampa Bay Rays]].<ref>{{cite web |title=2008 Awards Voting |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/awards/awards_2008.shtml |access-date=May 3, 2016 |website=[[Baseball-Reference.com]] |publisher=[[Sports Reference]]}}</ref> Ramírez led the major leagues in grand slam home runs in 2008, with four, and also swung at 59% of all pitches he saw for the season, also the most in the majors.<ref>{{cite web |title=2008 Major League Baseball PH/HR/Situ Hitting |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/MLB/2008-situational-batting.shtml |access-date=August 18, 2009 |website=[[Baseball-Reference.com]] |publisher=[[Sports Reference]]}}</ref> |
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====2009 season==== |
====2009 season==== |
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Ramírez appeared in 148 games in his second MLB season. He posted a .277 batting average, 15 home runs, 68 RBI, and 15 stolen bases.<ref name="B-Ref"/> He fielded a [[ground ball]] for the final out of [[Mark Buehrle]]'s July 23, 2009 [[Mark Buehrle's perfect game|perfect game]].<ref>{{cite web| |
Ramírez appeared in 148 games in his second MLB season. He posted a .277 batting average, 15 home runs, 68 RBI, and 15 stolen bases.<ref name="B-Ref"/> He fielded a [[ground ball]] for the final out of [[Mark Buehrle]]'s July 23, 2009 [[Mark Buehrle's perfect game|perfect game]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rosenthal |first=Phil |date=July 23, 2009 |title=Two descriptions of historic perfection, '09 Harrelson vs. '65 Scully |url=http://newsblogs.chicagotribune.com/towerticker/2009/07/two-descriptions-of-historic-perfection-09-harrelson-vs-65-scully.html |access-date=July 21, 2010 |website=[[Chicago Tribune]]}}</ref> |
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====2010 season==== |
====2010 season==== |
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Ramírez saw action in 156 games with Chicago. His batting average climbed to .282 and he tallied 18 homers and 70 |
Ramírez saw action in 156 games with Chicago. His batting average climbed to .282 and he tallied 18 homers and 70 RBI. He also won the American League [[Silver Slugger Award]] for the shortstop position.<ref name="B-Ref"/><ref>{{cite web |title=MLB Silver Slugger Award Winners |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/awards/silver_slugger_al.shtml#2010 |access-date=June 22, 2017 |website=[[Baseball-Reference.com]] |publisher=[[Sports Reference]]}}</ref> |
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====2011 season==== |
====2011 season==== |
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On January 31, 2011, Ramírez signed a four-year, $32.5 million contract with the White Sox that included a club option for a fifth year.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sullivan |first=Jeff |date=January 31, 2011 |title=Alexei Ramirez Signs Four-Year Contract Extension With White Sox |url=https://www.sbnation.com/2011/1/31/2328962/alexei-ramirez-signs-four-year-contract-extension-with-white-sox |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=[[SB Nation]] |language=en}}</ref> In 158 games, Ramírez posted a .269 batting average, 15 home runs, and 70 RBI.<ref name="B-Ref"/> |
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In 158 games, Ramírez posted a .269 batting average, 15 home runs, and 70 runs batted in.<ref name="B-Ref"/> |
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====2012 season==== |
====2012 season==== |
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Ramírez again appeared in 158 games, as his batting average dipped slightly to .265. His home run total decreased to |
Ramírez again appeared in 158 games, as his batting average dipped slightly to .265. His home run total decreased to nine, but he still had 73 RBI. He also set a new career high with 20 steals.<ref name="B-Ref"/> |
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====2013 season==== |
====2013 season==== |
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[[File:Alexei Ramírez May 2015 Minute Maid head shot.jpg|thumb|Ramírez in 2015.]] |
[[File:Alexei Ramírez May 2015 Minute Maid head shot.jpg|thumb|Ramírez in 2015.]] |
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For a third consecutive season, Ramírez saw action in exactly 158 games. His batting average of .284 was the highest since his rookie season. His power numbers fell further as he hit only six homers and |
For a third consecutive season, Ramírez saw action in exactly 158 games. His batting average of .284 was the highest since his rookie season. His power numbers fell further as he hit only six homers and recorded 48 RBI. He also stole 30 bases, surpassing his previous career best from the year before.<ref name="B-Ref"/> |
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====2014 season==== |
====2014 season==== |
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On May 5, 2014, Ramírez recorded his 1,000th career hit off of [[Chicago Cubs]]' pitcher [[Justin Grimm]] in the 12th inning of the [[Crosstown Classic]].{{ |
On May 5, 2014, Ramírez recorded his 1,000th career hit off of [[Chicago Cubs]]' pitcher [[Justin Grimm]] in the 12th inning of the [[Crosstown Classic]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 5, 2014 |title=Chicago White Sox at Chicago Cubs Box Score, May 5, 2014 |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/CHN/CHN201405050.shtml |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=[[Baseball-Reference.com]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Forsha |first=Stephen |date=May 5, 2014 |title=Marcus Semien sends White Sox to extra-inning win over Cubs |url=https://southsideshowdown.com/2014/05/05/marcus-semien-sends-white-sox-extra-inning-win-cubs/ |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=Southside Showdown |publisher=[[FanSided]] |language=en-US}}</ref> |
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Ramírez was announced to his first All-Star game at the [[2014 MLB All-Star Game]] along with teammates [[Chris Sale]] and fellow countryman [[José Abreu ( |
Ramírez was announced to his first All-Star game at the [[2014 MLB All-Star Game]] along with teammates [[Chris Sale]] and fellow countryman [[José Abreu (first baseman)|José Abreu]]. He replaced [[Derek Jeter]] in the field in what was previously announced to be the Yankee star's final MLB season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sullivan |first=Paul |date=July 16, 2014 |title=White Sox relish taking part in Jeter tribute |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/white-sox/chi-sox-stars-derek-jeter-allstar-20140715-story.html |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=[[Chicago Tribune]]}}</ref> |
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====2015 season==== |
====2015 season==== |
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On November 4, 2015, the White Sox declined Ramírez's $10 million option for the 2016 season, making him a free agent.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/baseball/7/71/1071831/white-sox-decline-option-shortstop-alexei-ramirez |
On November 4, 2015, the White Sox declined Ramírez's $10 million option for the 2016 season, making him a free agent.<ref>{{cite web |last=Van Schouwen |first=Daryl |date=November 4, 2015 |title=White Sox decline option on shortstop Alexei Ramirez |url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/baseball/7/71/1071831/white-sox-decline-option-shortstop-alexei-ramirez |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106234037/http://chicago.suntimes.com/baseball/7/71/1071831/white-sox-decline-option-shortstop-alexei-ramirez |archive-date=November 6, 2015 |access-date=November 4, 2015 |work=[[Chicago Sun-Times]]}}</ref> |
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===San Diego Padres=== |
===San Diego Padres=== |
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On January 22, 2016, Ramírez signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the [[San Diego Padres]], with a $4 million mutual option for 2017.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Lin|first1=Dennis|url=http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2016/jan/22/padres-sign-alexei-ramirez-one-year-four-million/| |
On January 22, 2016, Ramírez signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the [[San Diego Padres]], with a $4 million mutual option for 2017.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Lin |first1=Dennis |date=January 22, 2016 |title=Padres sign Alexi Ramírez |url=http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2016/jan/22/padres-sign-alexei-ramirez-one-year-four-million/ |access-date=January 22, 2016 |work=[[The San Diego Union-Tribune]]}}</ref> He broke up [[Steven Matz]]'s no-hit bid with a RBI single in a game against the [[New York Mets]] on August 14, 2016.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Lin |first1=Dennis |date=August 14, 2016 |title=Padres' Ramirez breaks up Matz's no-hit bid in loss |url=http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sdut-padres-ramirez-ends-matz-no-hitter-loss-to-mets-2016aug14-story.html |access-date=May 4, 2017 |work=[[The San Diego Union-Tribune]]}}</ref> Ramírez appeared in 128 games with the Padres, mainly at shortstop. He batted .240, with five home runs and 41 RBI.<ref name="B-Ref"/> He was released by the Padres on September 4.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |date=September 4, 2016 |title=Padres release veteran shortstop Ramirez |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-release-shortstop-alexei-ramirez-c199486606 |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=[[MLB.com]] |publisher=[[MLB Advanced Media]] |language=en}}</ref> |
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===Tampa Bay Rays=== |
===Tampa Bay Rays=== |
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On September 8, 2016, Ramírez signed a major league deal with the Rays.<ref |
On September 8, 2016, Ramírez signed a major league deal with the Rays.<ref>{{Cite web |date=September 8, 2016 |title=Alexei Ramirez, cut by Padres, signs with Rays |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/17498310/alexei-ramirez-signs-tampa-bay-rays-being-released-san-diego-padres |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=[[ESPN]] |language=en}}</ref> He appeared in 17 games with Tampa Bay, tallying a .246 average, one home run, and 7 RBI. On November 3, Ramírez became a free agent.<ref name="B-Ref"/> |
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===Diablos Rojos del México=== |
===Diablos Rojos del México=== |
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On February 8, 2018, Ramírez signed with the [[Diablos Rojos del México]] of the [[Mexican Baseball League]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Con nueve años de experiencia en Grandes Ligas, Alexei Ramírez se une a los Diablos|url=http://diablos.com.mx/con-nueve-anos-de-experiencia-en-grandes-ligas-alexei-ramirez-se-une-a-los-diablos/| |
On February 8, 2018, Ramírez signed with the [[Diablos Rojos del México]] of the [[Mexican Baseball League]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Con nueve años de experiencia en Grandes Ligas, Alexei Ramírez se une a los Diablos |url=http://diablos.com.mx/con-nueve-anos-de-experiencia-en-grandes-ligas-alexei-ramirez-se-une-a-los-diablos/ |access-date=February 8, 2018 |website=[[Diablos Rojos del México]] |language=es |archive-date=June 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220605131139/https://diablos.com.mx/con-nueve-anos-de-experiencia-en-grandes-ligas-alexei-ramirez-se-une-a-los-diablos/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> He was released by the team on August 16, 2018. |
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In May 2020, Ramírez announced he was still seeking professional baseball opportunities. He later confirmed his retirement the next year.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lazowski |first=Jordan |date=December 28, 2021 |title=Interview with Former White Sox Shortstop Alexei Ramirez |url=https://www.soxon35th.com/interview-with-former-white-sox-shortstop-alexei-ramirez/ |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=Sox On 35th |language=en-US}}</ref> |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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{{ |
{{baseballstats|mlb=493351|espn=28952|br=r/ramiral03|fangraphs=5133|brm=ramire005ale|retro=R/Pramia003}} |
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*{{CPSNBAT|cps=alexei-ramirez-rodriguez}} |
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{{AL SS Silver Slugger Award}} |
{{AL SS Silver Slugger Award}} |
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{{Portal bar|Baseball|Biography|Cuba}} |
{{Portal bar|Baseball|Biography|Cuba}} |
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Ramirez, Alexei}} |
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[[Category:1981 births]] |
[[Category:1981 births]] |
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[[Category:Baseball players at the 2004 Summer Olympics]] |
[[Category:Baseball players at the 2004 Summer Olympics]] |
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[[Category:Baseball players at the 2007 Pan American Games]] |
[[Category:Baseball players at the 2007 Pan American Games]] |
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[[Category:Central American and Caribbean Games gold medalists]] |
[[Category:Central American and Caribbean Games gold medalists for Cuba]] |
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[[Category:Chicago White Sox players]] |
[[Category:Chicago White Sox players]] |
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[[Category:Competitors at the 2006 Central American and Caribbean Games]] |
[[Category:Competitors at the 2006 Central American and Caribbean Games]] |
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[[Category:Cuban |
[[Category:Defecting Cuban baseball players]] |
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[[Category:Leones del Escogido players]] |
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[[Category:Cuban expatriate baseball players in the Dominican Republic]] |
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[[Category:Major League Baseball players from Cuba]] |
[[Category:Major League Baseball players from Cuba]] |
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[[Category:Cuban expatriate baseball players in the United States]] |
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[[Category:Major League Baseball second basemen]] |
[[Category:Major League Baseball second basemen]] |
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[[Category:Major League Baseball shortstops]] |
[[Category:Major League Baseball shortstops]] |
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[[Category:Medalists at the 2004 Summer Olympics]] |
[[Category:Medalists at the 2004 Summer Olympics]] |
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[[Category:Mexican League baseball shortstops]] |
[[Category:Mexican League baseball shortstops]] |
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[[Category:Olympic baseball players |
[[Category:Olympic baseball players for Cuba]] |
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[[Category:Olympic gold medalists for Cuba]] |
[[Category:Olympic gold medalists for Cuba]] |
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[[Category:Olympic medalists in baseball]] |
[[Category:Olympic medalists in baseball]] |
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[[Category:Pan American Games gold medalists for Cuba]] |
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Latest revision as of 03:06, 22 August 2024
| Alexei Ramírez | |
|---|---|
 Ramírez with the Chicago White Sox | |
| Shortstop | |
| Born: September 22, 1981 Pinar del Río, Cuba | |
Batted: Right Threw: Right | |
| MLB debut | |
| March 31, 2008, for the Chicago White Sox | |
| Last MLB appearance | |
| October 2, 2016, for the Tampa Bay Rays | |
| MLB statistics | |
| Batting average | .270 |
| Home runs | 115 |
| Runs batted in | 590 |
| Teams | |
| Career highlights and awards | |
| |
Medals | |
Alexei Fernando Ramírez Rodriguez (born September 22, 1981) is a Cuban former professional baseball shortstop. He has played for the Chicago White Sox, San Diego Padres and Tampa Bay Rays in MLB and Pinar del Rio of the Cuban National Series. His nickname, given to him by former White Sox manager Ozzie Guillén, is "the Cuban Missile" due to his tall, slim physique and combination of speed, power, and strong throwing arm. Ramírez batted and threw right-handed.
Early career
[edit]In seven years of baseball in the Cuban National Series, Ramírez spent most of his time playing shortstop and outfield for Pinar del Rio.[1] He had a batting average of .332 in Cuba, and led the league in 2007 with 20 home runs while posting a .335 average.[1] Ramírez played center field for Cuba at the 2006 World Baseball Classic, collecting six hits in 16 at-bats and impressing Major League Baseball scouts in the process.
Professional career
[edit]Chicago White Sox
[edit]In September 2007, Ramírez left Cuba to apply for citizenship in the Dominican Republic, and also apply to Major League Baseball to enter free agency, according to his agent, Jaime Torres. He auditioned for many baseball teams before coming to an agreement on a four-year, $8 million contract with the Chicago White Sox on December 21, 2007.[2]
2008 season
[edit]Ramírez made his MLB debut on March 31, 2008 against the Cleveland Indians, finishing the game 0-for-4 as the starting center fielder.[3] He recorded his first major league hit on April 2,[4] a single off Indians reliever Jorge Julio.[5] Ramírez hit his first major league home run on May 16,[4] off San Francisco Giants reliever Billy Sadler.[6]
Ramírez hit his first career grand slam on July 22, 2008.[7] On September 19, Ramírez hit his third grand slam of the season off of pitcher Brian Bannister of the Kansas City Royals, tying an American League rookie record set by Shane Spencer of the New York Yankees in 1998. It was the White Sox's eleventh grand slam of the season, equaling the previous club record from 2006.[8] On September 29, Ramírez hit his fourth grand slam of the season, setting a major-league single-season record for a rookie,[9] off of Detroit Tigers pitcher Gary Glover in an 8–2 Sox victory to qualify the Sox for a one-game tiebreaker against the Minnesota Twins for the AL Central title. This also broke the team record for most grand slams in a single season.[10]
During his first season in the Majors, Ramírez excelled both offensively and in the field, despite primarily playing second base instead of his customary shortstop position. Over 136 games, he posted a .290 batting average, hitting 21 homers and recording 77 RBI.[11] He finished in second place in the voting for American League Rookie of the Year honors, losing to Evan Longoria of the Tampa Bay Rays.[12] Ramírez led the major leagues in grand slam home runs in 2008, with four, and also swung at 59% of all pitches he saw for the season, also the most in the majors.[13]
2009 season
[edit]Ramírez appeared in 148 games in his second MLB season. He posted a .277 batting average, 15 home runs, 68 RBI, and 15 stolen bases.[11] He fielded a ground ball for the final out of Mark Buehrle's July 23, 2009 perfect game.[14]
2010 season
[edit]Ramírez saw action in 156 games with Chicago. His batting average climbed to .282 and he tallied 18 homers and 70 RBI. He also won the American League Silver Slugger Award for the shortstop position.[11][15]
2011 season
[edit]On January 31, 2011, Ramírez signed a four-year, $32.5 million contract with the White Sox that included a club option for a fifth year.[16] In 158 games, Ramírez posted a .269 batting average, 15 home runs, and 70 RBI.[11]
2012 season
[edit]Ramírez again appeared in 158 games, as his batting average dipped slightly to .265. His home run total decreased to nine, but he still had 73 RBI. He also set a new career high with 20 steals.[11]
2013 season
[edit]
For a third consecutive season, Ramírez saw action in exactly 158 games. His batting average of .284 was the highest since his rookie season. His power numbers fell further as he hit only six homers and recorded 48 RBI. He also stole 30 bases, surpassing his previous career best from the year before.[11]
2014 season
[edit]On May 5, 2014, Ramírez recorded his 1,000th career hit off of Chicago Cubs' pitcher Justin Grimm in the 12th inning of the Crosstown Classic.[17][18]
Ramírez was announced to his first All-Star game at the 2014 MLB All-Star Game along with teammates Chris Sale and fellow countryman José Abreu. He replaced Derek Jeter in the field in what was previously announced to be the Yankee star's final MLB season.[19]
2015 season
[edit]On November 4, 2015, the White Sox declined Ramírez's $10 million option for the 2016 season, making him a free agent.[20]
San Diego Padres
[edit]On January 22, 2016, Ramírez signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the San Diego Padres, with a $4 million mutual option for 2017.[21] He broke up Steven Matz's no-hit bid with a RBI single in a game against the New York Mets on August 14, 2016.[22] Ramírez appeared in 128 games with the Padres, mainly at shortstop. He batted .240, with five home runs and 41 RBI.[11] He was released by the Padres on September 4.[23]
Tampa Bay Rays
[edit]On September 8, 2016, Ramírez signed a major league deal with the Rays.[24] He appeared in 17 games with Tampa Bay, tallying a .246 average, one home run, and 7 RBI. On November 3, Ramírez became a free agent.[11]
Diablos Rojos del México
[edit]On February 8, 2018, Ramírez signed with the Diablos Rojos del México of the Mexican Baseball League.[25] He was released by the team on August 16, 2018.
In May 2020, Ramírez announced he was still seeking professional baseball opportunities. He later confirmed his retirement the next year.[26]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b "Alexei Ramírez Cuban, Winter & Minor Leagues Statistics". Baseball-Reference.com. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
- ^ Rojas, Enrique (December 22, 2007). "ChiSox ink Cuban star Ramírez to four-year deal". ESPN. Retrieved October 10, 2017.
- ^ "Chicago White Sox at Cleveland Indians Box Score, March 31, 2008". Baseball-Reference.com. March 31, 2008. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
- ^ a b "Alexei Ramirez 2008 Batting Gamelogs". Baseball-Reference.com. Sports Reference. Retrieved May 4, 2017.
- ^ "Chicago White Sox at Cleveland Indians Box Score, April 2, 2008". Baseball-Reference.com. Sports Reference. April 2, 2008. Retrieved May 4, 2017.
- ^ "Chicago White Sox at San Francisco Giants Box Score, May 16, 2008". Baseball-Reference.com. Sports Reference. Retrieved May 4, 2017.
- ^ "Ramirez cracks first career grand slam while Buehrle handles Rangers in win". ESPN. July 22, 2008. Archived from the original on January 29, 2016. Retrieved August 18, 2012.
- ^ "Ramirez's grand slam, Wise's two homers power White Sox past Royals". ESPN. Associated Press. September 19, 2008. Archived from the original on September 23, 2008. Retrieved August 16, 2012.
- ^ "Grand Slam Records". Baseball Almanac. September 29, 2008. Archived from the original on October 28, 2008. Retrieved September 29, 2008.
- ^ "Ramirez's grand slam paves way as White Sox force tiebreaker with Twins". ESPN. Associated Press. September 29, 2008. Archived from the original on October 1, 2008. Retrieved August 16, 2012.
- ^ a b c d e f g h "Alexei Ramirez Stats". Baseball-Reference.com. Sports Reference. Retrieved May 4, 2017.
- ^ "2008 Awards Voting". Baseball-Reference.com. Sports Reference. Retrieved May 3, 2016.
- ^ "2008 Major League Baseball PH/HR/Situ Hitting". Baseball-Reference.com. Sports Reference. Retrieved August 18, 2009.
- ^ Rosenthal, Phil (July 23, 2009). "Two descriptions of historic perfection, '09 Harrelson vs. '65 Scully". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved July 21, 2010.
- ^ "MLB Silver Slugger Award Winners". Baseball-Reference.com. Sports Reference. Retrieved June 22, 2017.
- ^ Sullivan, Jeff (January 31, 2011). "Alexei Ramirez Signs Four-Year Contract Extension With White Sox". SB Nation. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
- ^ "Chicago White Sox at Chicago Cubs Box Score, May 5, 2014". Baseball-Reference.com. May 5, 2014. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
- ^ Forsha, Stephen (May 5, 2014). "Marcus Semien sends White Sox to extra-inning win over Cubs". Southside Showdown. FanSided. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
- ^ Sullivan, Paul (July 16, 2014). "White Sox relish taking part in Jeter tribute". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
- ^ Van Schouwen, Daryl (November 4, 2015). "White Sox decline option on shortstop Alexei Ramirez". Chicago Sun-Times. Archived from the original on November 6, 2015. Retrieved November 4, 2015.
- ^ Lin, Dennis (January 22, 2016). "Padres sign Alexi Ramírez". The San Diego Union-Tribune. Retrieved January 22, 2016.
- ^ Lin, Dennis (August 14, 2016). "Padres' Ramirez breaks up Matz's no-hit bid in loss". The San Diego Union-Tribune. Retrieved May 4, 2017.
- ^ Cassavell, AJ (September 4, 2016). "Padres release veteran shortstop Ramirez". MLB.com. MLB Advanced Media. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
- ^ "Alexei Ramirez, cut by Padres, signs with Rays". ESPN. September 8, 2016. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
- ^ "Con nueve años de experiencia en Grandes Ligas, Alexei Ramírez se une a los Diablos". Diablos Rojos del México (in Spanish). Archived from the original on June 5, 2022. Retrieved February 8, 2018.
- ^ Lazowski, Jordan (December 28, 2021). "Interview with Former White Sox Shortstop Alexei Ramirez". Sox On 35th. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
External links
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Alexei Ramírez.
- Career statistics and player information from MLB, or ESPN, or Baseball Reference, or Fangraphs, or Baseball Reference (Minors), or Retrosheet
- Cuban Baseball Career statistics
Categories:
- 1981 births
- Living people
- American League All-Stars
- Baseball players at the 2004 Summer Olympics
- Baseball players at the 2007 Pan American Games
- Central American and Caribbean Games gold medalists for Cuba
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- Competitors at the 2006 Central American and Caribbean Games
- Defecting Cuban baseball players
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- Sportspeople from Pinar del Río
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- Tampa Bay Rays players
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- 2006 World Baseball Classic players
- Central American and Caribbean Games medalists in baseball
- Medalists at the 2007 Pan American Games
- Cuban expatriate baseball players in Mexico