Ramirez Close To 6 Year Deal

May 9, 2008

The Sun-Sentinel is reporting that the Marlins and Hanley Ramirez are close to finalizing a six year extension worth $70 million. The Marlins well known for their inability to sign players to long term deals would be making a huge statement with this move. The new stadium on the horizon for 2011 would begin to show it’s dividends.

In the past, securing young talent has been an issue for the Marlins and has caused them to part ways with many star players including the latest, Miguel Cabrera. It was the inability to sign Cabrera long term early on that put him out of the Marlins’ payroll parameters. Ramirez, an up and coming star in the league is scheduled to begin arbitration after this season. If this deal is finalized, Ramirez would be buying out his first 3 years of free agency and would be giving the Marlins a tremendous hometown discount. This year, Ramirez is earning $439,000 and this contract would take effect starting with the 2009 season.

This would be the largest commitment in franchise history. Before the deal can be finalized, Ramirez will need to pass a physical.

Written by Larry Walansky · Filed Under News
Tagged: Cabrera, Firsts, hanley, History, league, Marlins, player, ramirez, Schedule, Stadium