José Ramírez reminded everyone why he’s one of baseball’s elite talents Saturday night with a slide that defied physics – even as his Guardians fell 7-1 to the Phillies.
The Cleveland superstar, caught in what should have been an easy out after a pickoff throw to first by Phillies reliever José Alvarado, somehow transformed certain defeat into a stolen base with some sliding wizardry that has to be seen to be believed.
José Ramírez with one of the better slides … probably ever.#GuardsBall pic.twitter.com/8HYJl9kBpG
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) May 11, 2025
It’s these moments of brilliance that have become routine for Ramírez, who continues building what looks increasingly like a Hall of Fame resume. The third baseman has quietly assembled a career worthy of Cooperstown despite playing in a smaller market than many of his contemporaries.
What makes Ramírez special isn’t just his consistent production – it’s his ability to impact games in every possible way. He hits for average and power, plays excellent defense, and as Saturday night showed, can change the complexion of a game on the basepaths with extraordinary instincts and athleticism.
The steal didn’t impact the final outcome as the Guardians struggled against Philadelphia. But it’s the type of play that belongs in Ramírez’s career highlight package alongside his more consequential moments. That’s how good it was.
