Cleveland, Ohio — José Ramírez, the celebrated Cleveland Guardians player, has received the distinguished honor of having a street named after him: José Ramírez Way. This acknowledgment was unveiled at Clark Field, the state-of-the-art $2.7 million youth baseball facility to which Ramírez contributed significantly three years prior.
The star athlete, a seven-time All-Star known for his impressive standing in Guardians’ batting records, attended the street-naming ceremony accompanied by teammates, coaches, and city officials. Clearly moved by the tribute, Ramírez expressed his gratitude for the city’s acknowledgment through his interpreter, Agustin Rivero.
Ramírez is now one of only two Cleveland baseball figures to have streets named in their honor, joining the ranks of the revered Larry Doby. Furthermore, he is the sole active athlete to receive such an honor in a city with a rich sports history.
Boasting a significant role in the community, José Ramírez Field has already established itself as the most frequented youth baseball venue in Cleveland since its opening in August 2023. Cleveland’s Lincoln West Wolverines and the Guardians RBI program call the field home, while it frequently hosts MLB PlayBall initiatives alongside various seasonal leagues and programs.
City Council President Blaine Griffin highlighted the notable timing and significance of the location. Clark Field is situated within the most densely populated Latin community in Ohio, making the dedication to Ramírez, a local hero, particularly special.
The field is part of the Guardians Impact Program, joining other notable venues like League Park, C.C. Sabathia Field at Luke Easter Park, and Jim Thome Field at Brookside Park, which aim to provide baseball access to the city’s youth.
Reflecting on this milestone, Ramírez acknowledged his drive to carry forward the legacy of past generous players. He sees the field as a continuation of giving back to future generations, inspired to continue striving in the game for the potential future players it could inspire.
The dedication drew attendance from several Guardians staff, including manager Stephen Vogt and other team officials, as well as teammates like Bo Naylor. Naylor, a nominee for this year’s Roberto Clemente Award, commended Ramírez for his tremendous impact both within and beyond baseball.
He expressed admiration for Ramírez, noting the player’s influence serves as a significant source of inspiration and motivation to the team. This sentiment echoes through northeast Ohio, reinforcing Ramírez’s support from the local community both on and off the field.
For the Guardians organization, the Christine event marks a significant milestone. Bo Naylor praised Ramírez for not only reaching significant accomplishments in the sport but also for his substantial contributions to the community, hailing the street naming as a “big high” for the franchise.
In this heartfelt ceremony, the Cleveland community celebrates not only José Ramírez’s immense contribution to baseball but also his enduring influence within the city, exemplifying the true spirit of sportsmanship and community dedication.