Report: Detroit Tigers Sign Former Rookie of the Year Candidate as Opening Day Approaches
As Opening Day for the 2025 MLB season quickly approaches, the Detroit Tigers have made a significant move to bolster their roster, signing former Rookie of the Year candidate, Alex Ramirez, to a one-year contract. The 27-year-old outfielder, once considered one of the brightest young stars in baseball, has been looking for a fresh start after a series of injury setbacks derailed his promising early career.
Ramirez, who was a highly regarded prospect in the New York Mets’ farm system, made a major splash in his rookie season in 2021. He finished the year with a .278 batting average, 23 home runs, and 65 RBIs in 118 games, quickly drawing attention from scouts and analysts around the league. His combination of power and speed, along with his defensive prowess in the outfield, had many envisioning him as a future All-Star.
However, after an impressive rookie year, things took a turn for Ramirez. Injuries, including a hamstring strain and recurring shoulder problems, limited his playing time in subsequent seasons. His numbers saw a sharp decline, and by the time 2024 arrived, Ramirez found himself on the outs with the Mets, who decided to part ways with him after a disappointing campaign in which he posted just a .221 batting average with eight home runs in 75 games.
The Tigers, however, have seen something in Ramirez that they believe can be revived. Tigers General Manager, Al Avila, expressed excitement about adding the former Rookie of the Year candidate to the roster, highlighting Ramirez’s potential to regain the form that once made him one of baseball’s top prospects.
“We’re really excited to bring in a talent like Alex,” Avila said in a statement. “He has a lot of tools that we believe can fit well with our team. He’s a guy who can play multiple outfield positions, and when healthy, we know he can hit for power and make a difference in the lineup. We’re looking forward to seeing him contribute this season.”
For Ramirez, the signing represents a much-needed opportunity for a career revival. The outfielder expressed his excitement about joining the Tigers and the chance to prove himself once again.
“It’s been a tough couple of years with the injuries, but I’m feeling great and ready to get back to the player I know I can be,” Ramirez said. “I’m thankful to the Tigers for believing in me, and I’m excited to help this team win games. It’s a new chapter in my career, and I’m ready for the challenge.”
The signing comes as the Tigers look to improve on their 2024 season, which ended with a 73-89 record. With a young, emerging core that includes slugger Spencer Torkelson, promising pitcher Casey Mize, and veterans like Javier Báez, the team is hoping Ramirez can provide an offensive boost and become a key contributor to their lineup.
Ramirez is expected to compete for an everyday spot in the Tigers’ outfield, with the possibility of seeing time as a designated hitter as well. As Spring Training unfolds, all eyes will be on the former Rookie of the Year candidate to see if he can rediscover the form that made him a star in the making just a few years ago.
The Detroit Tigers will officially open their 2025 season on March 30th, and with Ramirez now in the fold, there’s a renewed sense of optimism surrounding the team as they aim to take the next step toward contending in the American League Central.
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