For those in need of further evidence that Indians infielder Jose Ramirez is composed of superlative DNA, consider that, according to today’s report from Mandy Bell of MLB.com, the injured star may be back in the lineup for tomorrow’s game against the Phillies (link). Before Saturday’s game, Ramirez took live batting practice, which could represent the final step in his recovery.
Just two days ago, MLBTR relayed that Ramirez–who fractured a hamate bone in late August–may have been ready to return for next week’s series against the White Sox. That the 27-year-old would make it back even sooner than that is a testament to both his toughness and some impressively resilient bones. Though he hasn’t played at the halcyon level we saw from him in 2018, Ramirez has still graded out as an above-average regular to this point in 2019, with a .254/.325/.463 slash line, 20 homers, and 24 steals through 126 games.
Team prez Chris Antonetti also gave an update to Bell on the progress of ailing starter Corey Kluber, who long-tossed from 120 feet on Friday. In short, the club isn’t ruling out Kluber’s return this year–even if their playoff rotation remains unsettled in a heated race for the AL Wild Card.
“Yes, [Kluber] could fit in,” Antonetti told Bell. “I think how far [the season] goes obviously has an impact on that…I’d love for him to be pitching Game 7 of the World Series. That’s a good outcome for us.”
Kluber, 33, fractured his forearm on May 1 and suffered a strained left oblique in his comeback bid on Aug. 18. The former Cy Young winner has pitched to a 5.80 ERA (4.06 FIP) through 35.2 innings this year, with 9.59 K/9 and 3.79 BB/9 marks.
Dream on, Chris Antonetti, dream on about the seventh game of a World Series this year. It won’t happen.
Nevertheless, the Tribe overcame much adversity this season, regardless of what happens between now and the end of the season.
Crystal ball.
Go die sis
I wrote the previous comment as the Tribe is getting routed by the Phillies.
Kluber probably isn’t the guy you want pitching in game 7 of the World Series, considering he’s been injured most of the year.
Chris Antonetti wasn’t referring to the outcome of the game 7.. he was commenting on the Indians being there.. regardless of who the starting pitcher is.. duh.
Meh, I am a Klubot fan, but for now I’d rather have Bieber in a game 7.
And Michael Martinez pinch hitting with the game on the line… ;)
PED suspension in 5, 4, 3….
Nah, they’ll leave that to the Twinkies.
PED suspension because a broken bone was removed from his hand through surgery? PEDs don’t speed up that process doc.
Must be the juice, SMH…
“When Ramirez had the surgery, his recovery time was put at five to seven weeks. It was thought he’d miss the rest of the regular season, but he’s recovered faster than anyone anticipated.
Francona said Ramirez can’t injury himself anymore where his hand was surgically repaired.
“We asked the medical people that,” he said. “There only issue they had was the wound (incision) had to be closed. Well, it’s been closed. He’s OK.””
Stupidity suspension in 3,2,1……
Indians should contend in 2020 after a 93 win season in ‘19. Kluber should be shopped with teams definitely looking for SP.. think NYY, LAA, SD and CIN. Whatever return you get for Kluber needs to include a MLB ready SP to fill his spot. Keep Ramirez in the lineup with Lindor and go for the AL Central!