Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez has delivered a historic performance in Major League Baseball this July, combining his power at the plate with exceptional speed on the bases. This standout achievement has not only boosted his team’s prospects but also added a significant milestone to his career records.
A Challenging Start Followed by a Strong Finish
Ramírez’s month began with struggles at the plate, going 0-for-12 early on. However, he swiftly recovered, finishing July with an impressive .302 batting average and a 1.076 on-base plus slugging (OPS). Throughout the month, he drove in 18 runs, hit eight home runs, five doubles, and one triple, while also stealing 10 bases. His multi-hit contributions in the final games against the Colorado Rockies helped solidify the Guardians’ offense during critical moments.
Joining a Rare MLB Legacy With a Second Historic Month
This July’s numbers mark only the fourth time an MLB player has recorded at least eight home runs and 10 stolen bases in a single month. More notably, Ramírez is the first and only player to achieve this combination twice, having first done so in 2018. This feat places him alongside legendary players like Bobby Bonds, who set the mark in 1978, and Jeff Bagwell’s 1999 campaign, highlighting Ramírez’s unique blend of power and speed.
Exclusive Group of MLB Players
Players who have reached the milestone of eight or more home runs and 10 or more stolen bases in a July include:
1. José Ramírez (2023)
2. José Ramírez (2018)
3. Jeff Bagwell (1999)
4. Bobby Bonds (1978)
This list underscores the rarity of such a dynamic performance, emphasizing Ramírez’s elite status within the sport.
Implications of Ramírez’s Performance for the Guardians
Ramírez’s historic July feat highlights his importance as both a power hitter and a threat on the basepaths for the Cleveland Guardians. His ability to drive runs and create scoring opportunities through stolen bases makes him a versatile and threatening player. As the Guardians continue their season, Ramírez’s all-around contributions will be pivotal in their push toward playoff contention.