Spring training has officially begun, and the Cleveland Guardians are hosting over 60 players in camp.
Some players are locks to make the roster, while a big group of players know they need to impress to force their way into the organization’s plans.
Jose Ramirez and Tanner Bibee are proud members of the first group: stars with a safe roster spot that just want to start the season in the best possible shape.
Since iron sharpens iron, the Guardians had them face each other in camp this week.
Team insider Mandy Bell posted a video of the young ace facing the perennial MVP candidate in a practice at-bat.
Tanner Bibee vs. José Ramírez pic.twitter.com/l6o77B9Gyf
— Mandy Bell (@MandyBell02) February 13, 2024
Guardians fans thanked her in the replies section, as that content was badly missed in what turned out to be a long offseason.
Judging by the short, but significant footage, it seems like Bibee got the better of J-Ram, although we are not about to draw any conclusions from an early year at-bat.
We do know that Ramirez is probably the Guardians’ most important position player, and Bibee is the most important pitcher.
The former had 24 home runs and 28 stolen bases last year with a .831 OPS, and the latter posted a brilliant 2.98 ERA in 142 innings as a rookie.
In fact, Bibee finished second in the AL Rookie of the Year race and is full of promise.
Together, those two have the potential to lead the Guardians back into the playoffs.
They will need the support and production from their teammates, though.
NEXT: Jose Ramirez Gives Thanks Following A Special Donation
