The San Diego Padres, for the second consecutive season, secured the best available prospect at the start of the window to sign international amateur free agents.
It was catcher Ethan Salas last year (and he has been rising up through the minor league ranks like a consummate pro), and this time, it’s Dominican shortstop Leo De Vries.
But De Vries is also known for his excellent relationship with a Cleveland Guardians star.
“Padres prospect Leodalis De Vries discusses his relationship with Cleveland Guardians infielder Jose Ramirez. De Vries: ‘I know Jose really well. I like to think of him as a brother,'” 97.3 The Fan, a space that covers all things Padres, tweeted with a video of the interview.
Padres prospect Leodalis De Vries discusses his relationship with Cleveland Guardians infielder Jose Ramirez.
De Vries: "I know Jose really well. I like to think of him as a brother." pic.twitter.com/JI9nG7uxP5
— 97.3 The Fan (@973TheFanSD) January 15, 2024
The Guardians couldn’t land De Vries, but it’s nice to know that one of the players that the young star looks up to plays in Cleveland.
Like De Vries, a number of young prospects consider “J-Ram” one of their idols.
In the specific case of De Vries, you could say that Ramirez is essentially like a big brother when it comes to baseball and his career.
De Vries is a promising infielder who could one day develop 20-homer power, in Ramirez’s mold.
He is still only 17, so he has a ways to go.
During the journey toward becoming a big leaguer, he will need guidance and advice from someone who has already done it.
Even if they play in different organizations, Ramirez could definitely provide that guidance.
Nothing beats having a big brother to show you the way.
NEXT: Video Shows Key Guardians Reliever Training For A Return
