You can say whatever you want about Jose Ramirez’s 2026 performance. After all, the Cleveland Guardians legend is slashing a modest .207/.340/.366 with a 101 wRC+. He boasts a career 129 wRC+, so yes: he’s well off the pace at the moment.
It’s not the first time Ramirez has experienced a slump, but things are starting to become a bit worrisome. He is still more than capable of finding his way out of this, though, and he is still contributing in other facets of the game.
For example, not only does Ramirez lead baseball in stolen bases, but he is on pace to shatter his personal best in that particular stat. The superstar has never been shy about how much he loves to run, and he sure is making an impact in that area.
“José Ramírez entered today on pace for 59 steals this season. He’s got two today and is up to 18 this season (first in MLB),” Guardians insider Tim Stebbins posted on X.
José Ramírez entered today on pace for 59 steals this season. He's got two today and is up to 18 this season (first in MLB).
— Tim Stebbins (@tim_stebbins) May 13, 2026
Naturally, that already incredible pace is now even better after racking up two more thefts on Wednesday’s finale against the Los Angeles Angels. Ramirez has been so active on the basepaths that, after the game, he had more steals than three teams: the Giants, the Astros, and the Blue Jays.
What’s most impressive about Ramirez and his ability to wreak havoc on the bases is his effectiveness. He has 18 steals and has only been caught twice, and it has been that way for his entire career.
After flirting with a 40-40 season in 2024, Ramirez finished last year with 30 home runs and 44 thefts. He has just six long balls so far in 2026, but is making sure he is still tormenting pitchers and catchers in the running game.
You can expect that .207 batting average to move closer to his career mark of .278, and with it, more opportunities to steal bases will probably come. Ramirez seems determined to destroy his career-high in steals. It seems that all he needs is to remain healthy, because he is highly motivated.
Could we see Ramirez’s first 50-steal season in MLB? It would be a remarkable feat at 33 years old. We wouldn’t be shocked, though.
NEXT: Guardians Earn First Sweep Of The Season Against Angels
