Jose Ramirez’s Jaw-Dropping Walk-Off Homer Ignites Social Media—Watch the Viral Guardians Highlight Now

Cleveland Guardians superstar José Ramírez will not suit up for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game on July 15 at Atlanta’s Truist Park, choosing to rest a nagging heel-ankle issue that has bothered him throughout the first half of the season. The five-time Silver Slugger had been voted the American League’s starting third baseman—his seventh All-Star nod—and was grateful for fan support before making the difficult call to prioritize long-term health. Ramírez, 32, is slashing .299/.364/.503 with 19 homers, 62 RBI and 16 stolen bases through 87 games, numbers that keep him firmly in the 2025 AL MVP conversation despite playing through pain. Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt praised the decision, noting that “a healthier J-Ram in August and September is worth more than one exhibition in July.” With Ramírez sidelined, Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Isaac Paredes has been named as his replacement on the AL roster. Guardians fans may still see their club represented: closer Emmanuel Clase and starter Tanner Bibee remain strong candidates for late additions. Why the rest matters • Cleveland enters the break atop the AL Central but only 2.5 games clear of Minnesota. • The switch-hitting Ramírez has battled lower-body issues for weeks; Statcast data show a two-mph drop in average sprint speed since mid-June. • He leads MLB third basemen in extra-base hits (47) and ranks second in fWAR (4.3), underscoring his irreplaceable value. What’s next Ramírez plans to spend the four-day break in Goodyear, Arizona, receiving targeted therapy and low-impact cage work. Team trainers expect him back in the Guardians lineup for the July 19 series opener against the Phillies, barring setbacks. Fantasy and betting angle Managers should monitor Cleveland’s post-break injury reports; a fully rested Ramírez could be primed for a power surge in the hitter-friendly heat of August. Sportsbooks dropped his AL MVP odds from +450 to +600 after the opt-out, presenting potential value if his health rebounds. Bottom line Skipping the Midsummer Classic may disappoint fans hoping to watch “J-Ram” on the national stage, but the move positions the Guardians’ cornerstone for a stronger playoff push—and could ultimately pay off for Cleveland and its star third baseman.