Wilson Ramos Retires After 18 Seasons in Professional Baseball

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Wilson Ramos officially announced his retirement from professional baseball today after 18 seasons, including 12 in Major League Baseball (MLB). The 37-year-old catcher signed a one-day ceremonial contract with the Washington Nationals, marking an emotional return to the team where he made a significant impact.

Ramos began his professional career in 2004 as an international signing by the Minnesota Twins. He made his MLB debut with the Twins in 2010 but was traded to the Nationals that same season. During his tenure in Washington, which lasted until 2016, Ramos emerged as a fan favorite, showcasing his powerful batting and strong defense.

His most celebrated season came in 2016 when he hit .307 with 22 home runs, earning a second All-Star selection and a Silver Slugger Award. However, his season ended prematurely due to a torn ACL, which affected his subsequent free agency.

After signing a two-year deal worth $12.5 million with the Tampa Bay Rays, Ramos rebounded with another All-Star season in 2018. He later played for the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets, illustrating his adaptability and skill behind the plate.

Ramos finished his career with a batting average of .271, 136 home runs, and 534 RBIs over 990 games. Despite struggling with injuries, including multiple ACL tears, he continued to inspire teammates and fans with his perseverance and work ethic. He attempted a comeback in 2022 with the Texas Rangers’ Triple-A team and played in various leagues, including the Mexican League and the Venezuelan Winter League.

As Ramos retires, he leaves behind a legacy filled with memorable moments and a deep connection to the baseball community. Reflecting on his journey, Ramos expressed gratitude for the experiences and relationships he gained throughout his career, stating, “I always believed in giving my all, and I hope I showed that to everyone who watched me play.”