Mon Sep 30 00:52:18 UTC 2024: ## Cleveland’s Ramírez Falls Just Short of 40-40 Milestone Due to Rainout

CLEVELAND – José Ramírez, the Cleveland Guardians’ All-Star third baseman, narrowly missed a historic milestone on Sunday as the team’s final game of the season against the Houston Astros was canceled due to rain. Ramírez, who entered the game with 41 steals and 39 home runs, needed just one more homer to join the exclusive club of players who have achieved the 40-40 mark in a single season.

While disappointed, Ramírez assured his manager, Stephen Vogt, that he would make another attempt next year. “He was like, ‘Hey, I’ll do it next year,'” Vogt relayed. “That’s who he is. He wants to win. Unfortunately, he just didn’t get one last opportunity.”

The game was delayed for over three hours before MLB called it, with the Astros needing to return home for their upcoming playoff series. Despite the rainout, Ramírez already had an impressive season, achieving 39 doubles and 1,500 career hits, leaving him one short of becoming just the second player in history to hit 40 homers, 40 doubles, and 40 steals in a single season.

“Unfortunately, Hosey didn’t get to have one more shot at it,” said Vogt, referring to the fan favorite by his nickname. “But to be the second person in the history of baseball to do what he did this year, that’s still a pretty cool feat.”

Ramírez, a native of the Dominican Republic, has spent his entire 11-year career in Cleveland. He is known for his hard work, consistency, and passion for the game, which has made him a fan favorite and earned him respect throughout the league.

“He’s one of the most underrated players in the big leagues,” said Astros manager Joe Espada. “He’s a really good player on both sides of the ball. I personally don’t like when he comes to the plate, obviously. But I admire watching him play because of how good and how tough he is. The passion that he plays with.”

Vogt, who only knew Ramírez as an opponent before joining the Guardians, has been impressed by his work ethic and dedication to the team. “One of the favorite parts of this job is watching him every single day be the same person,” Vogt said. “Playing the game the right way, going about his business. Playing the game to win, and your numbers will be there at the end of the year.”

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