José Ramírez nears Cleveland's games record, a milestone he calls most meaningful
CLEVELAND (AP) — José Ramírez could own every important Cleveland franchise offensive record by the time his contract with the Guardians expires in 2032. The mark that the seven-time AL all-star will set this week might be the most meaningful to him. Ramírez is three games from breaking Terry Turner’s record for franchise games played.
He should tie Turner’s 1,619 games during Sunday’s doubleheader against the Chicago Cubs and surpass it Monday when the Guardians host Kansas City. Cleveland and Chicago will play a traditional doubleheader on Sunday after Saturday's game was postponed . Turner’s record has stood for nearly 108 years.
He spent 15 of his 17 big-league seasons with Cleveland from 1904 through '18. “I think among all the records, I feel that’s one of the most important because it kind of resembles what I wanted to do with this team,” Ramirez said through interpreter Agustin Rivero. “My ultimate goal was to be able to play as long as I could here and be able to be part of those records that are happening now.
” According to MLB, Ramírez will be the only active player to lead his franchise in games played. Ramírez made his major league debut on Sept. 1, 2013, as a pinch runner for Carlos Santana during the ninth inning of Cleveland’s game at Detroit.
His first start came in his seventh game, going 2 for 3 against Kansas City. His transition to the majors was not immediate. He didn’t make the opening day roster until 2015.