Jose Ramirez is on the verge of having sole possession of the most games played in the Cleveland Guardians franchise history.
When Jose Ramirez ran out to pinch-run for Carlos Santana during Santana's MLB debut on September 1, 2013, he said he was just a young guy who was really hungry, trying to make a name for himself in the big leagues.
Thirteen years later, Ramirez still has a hunger and work ethic that is unmatched, but he doesn’t need to worry about making a name for himself anymore; he’s certainly accomplished that.
Now, Ramirez closes in on what he believes is the most important Cleveland Guardians franchise record: most games played in club history.
When Ramirez takes the field on Monday evening against the Kansas City Royals, he will have played his 1,620 games for the team, giving him sole possession of most games played in franchise history.
“Out of all the records, I feel that’s the one that’s most important because it kind of resembles what I wanted to do with this team, and thank God for keeping me healthy and be able to play like that,” said Ramirez through his interpreter ahead of the historic accomplishment.
“I think that was my ultimate goal was to be able to as long as I could here and be able to be a part of those records that are happening now.”
Jul 20, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Guardians third baseman Jose Ramirez (11) celebrates after a bare-handed play during the seventh inning against the Athletics at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesOne of the most impressive parts about this achievement is that it’ll likely never be broken.
Ramirez eclipsed previous records that had stood for over a century. Terry Turner (who is now No. 2 on the list) played for Cleveland from 1901 to 1918. Nap Lajoie (No. 3) played for the franchise from 1902 to 1914. Lou Boudrea (No. 4) played in Cleveland from 1938 to 1950.
Many may look at Cleveland’s record holders, see Ramirez’s name all over them, and claim that he represents loyalty in a sports landscape where that is rare. But for Ramirez, staying and playing his entire career in Cleveland was always the plan.
“ I feel that was the ultimate decider that I had when I signed. Then, when this organization gave me the chance to become a professional, just to stay my whole career here and be able to break not only those records, but become something meaningful for this organization,” continued Ramirez.
There aren’t many other words or phrases to describe who Ramirez is as a player and a person.
Ramirez found a home in Cleveland, the city has embraced him, and now he’s on track to be the great player in franchise history, if he doesn’t already own the title.
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