Erasmo Ramírez, a Nicaraguan-born pitcher, embarked on his Major League Baseball (MLB) journey with the Seattle Mariners. Signed as an international free agent in 2007, he worked his way through the Mariners' minor league system, making his MLB debut on April 9, 2012. Known for his ability to both start and relieve, Ramírez quickly became a valuable asset to his team.
During his initial stint with the Mariners, Ramírez showcased his pitching skills, which included a mix of fastballs, sliders, and changeups. His rookie season saw him appearing in 16 games, starting eight of them, and posting a respectable ERA. Over the next two seasons, he continued to develop his craft, although he faced challenges with consistency and injuries.
In 2015, Ramírez was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays, where he found a new opportunity to refine his skills. With the Rays, he transitioned into a more regular starting role. The 2015 season was a highlight for Ramírez, as he achieved career-best numbers in several pitching categories. His performance that year included a notable improvement in his strikeout rate and control, which helped him secure a spot in the Rays' rotation.
Ramírez's tenure with the Rays was marked by his adaptability on the mound. He was often called upon to fill various roles, whether as a starter or coming out of the bullpen. This flexibility proved beneficial for the team, although it sometimes made it challenging for him to maintain a consistent rhythm.
In 2017, Ramírez returned to the Mariners via a trade. His second stint with Seattle was characterized by similar challenges as his first, with injuries impacting his ability to maintain a steady presence in the rotation. Despite these setbacks, he continued to demonstrate his capability as a pitcher when healthy.
The following year, Ramírez signed with the Boston Red Sox, although his time with the team was brief. He spent most of the 2018 season recovering from injuries and only made a handful of appearances. In 2019, he joined the New York Mets, where he primarily served as a reliever. His role with the Mets allowed him to focus on shorter outings, which seemed to suit his pitching style at that stage of his career.
Ramírez's journey continued with the Washington Nationals in 2020. During the pandemic-shortened season, he contributed to the Nationals' bullpen, providing depth and experience. His ability to handle various pitching roles remained a valuable trait, especially in a season filled with uncertainties and adjustments.
Throughout his career, Ramírez was known for his work ethic and ability to adapt to the needs of his team.
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