Wilson Ramos is slated to become a free agent this winter, and he’s reportedly seeking contractual security if the Washington Nationals don’t extend him a qualifying offer worth $17.2 million.
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Ramos Reportedly Eyeing Long-Term Deal
Friday, Oct. 28
According to the Washington Post‘s Jorge Castillo, Ramos’ agent, Wil Polidor, said the catcher “is seeking a four- to five-year contract, which he could secure only if he were to reject the qualifying offer.”
But after Ramos tore his ACL shortly before the end of the regular season, nabbing a lucrative multiyear deal could prove difficult.
According to Castillo, it’s “unlikely but possible” the Nationals will extend Ramos a qualifying offer since he will only be available for a fraction of the 2017 season following the ACL tear.
“We’re going to see what the short-term rehab is,” Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said Thursday, per Castillo. “We’ll do all the due diligence on the medicals, which is the most important factor in what our plans are for Wilson. Once we get together with all the medical people that are involved, we’ll have a better idea of where we’re at with Wilson.”
Prior to his season-ending knee injury, Ramos was in line for a hefty raise.
The 29-year-old put together a career year at the plate for the Nationals, posting a slash line of .307/.354/.496 while hitting 22 home runs and notching 80 RBI. Ramos also recorded a career-high 25 doubles as his OPS skyrocketed to .850 from a mark of .616 the year prior.
According to Castillo, the Nationals have until five days after the conclusion of the World Series to make a decision regarding Ramos’ qualifying offer.
Should Washington decide to part ways with Ramos, the backstop could have a hard time selling prospective employers on his long-term viability based on the severity of his knee injury.
Rather, a club could sign Ramos to a short-term, prove-it deal to see if he’s capable of returning to form before offering him a more lucrative pact.
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