José Ramírez Rises to No. 5 in MLB Network's Top 100 Players List

José Ramírez Climbs to No. 5 on MLB Network’s Top 100 Players List for 2026

In a significant nod to his consistent excellence, Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez has climbed to the fifth spot on MLB Network’s prestigious Top 100 Players Right Now countdown. The ranking, revealed on Thursday, sees Ramírez move up four positions from his ninth-place finish last year, solidifying his status as one of baseball’s premier sluggers.

A Rising Star in the American League

While Ramírez’s rise is impressive, he wasn’t the highest-rated player in the AL Central Division. That honor went to Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who secured the third spot on the list. Despite this, Ramírez’s ranking underscores his immense value to the Guardians, a team poised for a strong showing in the 2026 season.

Rankings and Recognition

MLB Network’s rankings are based on recent performance, with a heavy emphasis on the 2025 season and projections for 2026. A panel of evaluators considered accolades, positional value, and the impact of returning players from injury. Ramírez, a four-time American League MVP finalist and seven-time All-Star, finished ahead of New York Mets slugger Juan Soto and behind 2025 Major League Player of the Year Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners.

The top five players, as ranked by MLB Network, are:

1. Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Dodgers)
2. Aaron Judge (New York Yankees)
3. Bobby Witt Jr. (Kansas City Royals)
4. Cal Raleigh (Seattle Mariners)
5. José Ramírez (Cleveland Guardians)

Impact on the Guardians Lineup

Analyst Cliff Floyd praised Ramírez’s role within the Guardians’ lineup, calling him a “one-man wrecking crew.” Floyd highlighted the team’s reliance on Ramírez, noting that his absence, whether due to a day off or an injury stint, is keenly felt. This underscores the third baseman’s importance not just as a hitter but as a leader on the field.

A Team Effort

While Ramírez’s individual performance is undeniable, his teammate Steven Kwan also made the list, securing the 75th spot. This further demonstrates the depth and talent within the Guardians’ roster, which is expected to be a formidable force in the AL Central in 2026.

MLB Network’s Top 100 Players

The comprehensive list features athletes with a cumulative 243 All-Star selections, 87 Silver Slugger Awards, 42 Gold Glove Awards, and 18 Most Valuable Player Awards. This year’s countdown includes players returning from injury, adding another layer of intrigue and depth to the rankings.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As the 2026 season approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Ramírez and the Guardians will perform. His ranking on MLB Network’s list serves as a strong indicator of the team’s potential and the individual’s continued dominance at the plate.

Guardians’ Mindset Moving Forward

Chris Antonetti, the Guardians’ General Manager, recently reflected on the team’s mindset as they prepare for the upcoming season. The organization’s approach to building a competitive roster, coupled with the emergence of young hitters, positions the Guardians as a team to watch in 2026.

Conclusion

José Ramírez’s climb to the fifth spot on MLB Network’s Top 100 Players list is a testament to his exceptional talent and consistent performance. As the Guardians gear up for another season, Ramírez’s leadership and power at the plate will undoubtedly be key factors in the team’s success. Baseball fans across the country will be closely watching to see if the Guardians can rise to the occasion and make their mark in the AL Central and beyond.