Cleveland Guardians' star third baseman José Ramírez has signed a massive contract extension, but the payment structure is turning heads! The 33-year-old Dominican player will receive his final payment in 2051, an astonishing 26 years after signing the deal. This unique arrangement is part of a $175 million, seven-year contract, with an annual salary of $25 million. But here's the twist: $10 million of his earnings each year will be deferred.
Ramírez's deferred payments are structured to be paid out in 10 equal installments, starting a decade after each season. For instance, his 2026 earnings will be paid out annually from 2036 to 2045. And this long-term commitment is a testament to his incredible value to the team.
The contract also includes some unique perks, such as a no-trade clause and a hotel suite for road trips. These benefits showcase the team's appreciation for Ramírez's loyalty, as he has spent his entire 13-year MLB career with the Guardians. And his performance speaks for itself: a seven-time All-Star with a career-high 44 stolen bases last season, joining an elite group of players with multiple 30-homer, 40-steal seasons.
But the question remains: is this deferred payment structure a wise choice for the player? Some may argue that it's a long wait for the full earnings, while others see it as a secure long-term investment. What do you think? Is this contract structure a fair deal for a player of Ramírez's caliber?
