Blue Jays pushing for Jose Ramirez trade as Guardians increase offer

The Cleveland Guardians rumored initial offer for Jose Ramirez seemed low, but it now looks like their are some bigger numbers floating around the rumor mill.

The club has upped the ante to a five-year extension for $104 million, according to Deportivo’s Hector Gomez. Factor in the $12 million Ramirez will make this season, as well as the $14 he will make in 2023 (team option), and that’s $130 million over seven seasons.

Also worth noting, Cleveland.com’s Paul Hoynes reported on Saturday, April 2, that the negotiations ceased on Thursday after Jose Ramirez and his agent made a counter offer. Hoynes did not have any numbers to report.

Going back to what Gomez reported…He tweeted last Saturday night that the Blue Jays were “pushing hard” for a trade, adding that while Ramirez would love to play out his career in Cleveland, the Guardians are “lowballing” him.

Recently, The Athletic’s Jim Bowden pegged the Blue Jays as a trade target because of what they could offer in return, mainly outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and infielder Cavan Biggio.

I’m not expecting a trade before Opening Day, as the Guardians just can’t handle the PR. If they decide to move him before they trade deadline, they’ll still receive a lot. Assuming a contender makes a play for him, the team who gets him will still have him for two cracks at the postseason.

It’s disappointing that no deal has been reached. Hoynsie’s report that talks have been shelved is disheartening. I know the club inked Emmanuel Clase to an extension, but when it comes to the major deals, this organization always seems to stall out on the 1-yard line.

After Matt Olson signed his 8-year, $168 million extension, some though the pact might serve as a template for a Ramirez extension.

I’m not sure the Guardians would want to do that many years. He’ll be 31 at the end of 2023. If he signs for the five years, he’ll be 36.