Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez will not be playing in the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, choosing instead to prioritize his recovery from a nagging right ankle and heel injury, one that has quietly hampered him since early May.
Ramírez was voted by fans as the American League’s starting third baseman for the July 15 Midsummer Classic in Atlanta, marking his seventh All-Star nod and fourth start.
But after weeks of managing pain, including issues with his Achilles tendon, the 32-year-old has made the difficult decision to opt out of both the game and festivities.
Ramírez said via team interpreter Agustin Rivero,
“I’ve been in pain all this time. It’s really difficult to play knowing you have that pain.”
Via MLB.com
Ramírez’s injury stems from a collision on May 2 against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre.
While trying to beat out an infield single, he was struck by pitcher Chris Bassitt’s throw, then collided with first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and landed awkwardly on the bag.
The play resulted in an ankle and heel sprain, and lingering discomfort ever since.
Though he returned just two days later, Ramírez has continued to battle through the injury by rotating as the team’s designated hitter when necessary.
But with only four days off during the All-Star break, he’s decided that true rest is more valuable than a spotlight appearance.
Ramírez added,
“I want to go to the All-Star Game, especially with the support from the fans. But I feel the best thing for the team is to be fresh and contribute in the second half.”
Via MLB.com
Despite his injury, Ramírez has missed just three of Cleveland’s first 90 games.
His resilience has been on full display, especially after being hit in the forearm by a 95 mph fastball from Kevin Gausman on June 26.
That incident sent him into a 0-for-20 slump, but the slugger has since rebounded.
He’s also ranked among the best defensive third basemen with 2 Outs Above Average, tied for sixth in MLB at the position.
Isaac Paredes Will replace Jose Ramirez As He Prioritizes His Health
Houston Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes will take Ramírez’s spot on the AL roster.
Paredes, aware of the circumstances, expressed his gratitude:
“If I get the chance, I’ll thank him. It’s an honor to represent the AL, but I know it means a lot for someone like Ramírez to step back for his health.”
Via MLB.com
Manager Stephen Vogt supported Ramírez’s choice fully:
“He’s never going to let anybody know what’s going on with him. That’s what the best players do — they stay on the field. But we’ll support him all the way.”
Via MLB.com
Ramírez will reportedly remain in Cleveland, continuing treatment with both the team’s medical staff and his personal trainer.
Though his family hoped to attend the All-Star festivities, Ramírez prioritized rest.
He said,
“If you go, you have to take part in all those beautiful events. I think I’m going to take the days to rest as much as possible.”
Via MLB.com
Jose Ramirez Had A Gritty First Half, but Is Hoping For A Better Comeback
This season hasn’t been smooth for José.
Alongside the May ankle scare and June’s hit-by-pitch, he also sprained his right wrist sliding into second on March 29, missing just one game before returning with a three-hit performance.
In other words, Ramírez hasn’t let injuries keep him away until now.
Nonetheless, his decision to skip the 2025 All-Star Game isn’t a reflection of decline, but rather a strategic move.
According to him,
“I’ve been trying to think about the team in the second half. I think it’s best for the team for me to get some rest.”
Via MLB.com
Cleveland fans may not see their star at the All-Star Game, but they’ll hope a rested and rejuvenated Ramírez means an explosive second half for the red-hot Guardians.
