Weekly Wroundtable: Which Cleveland Indians’ player will improve most?

Sep 18, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Cleveland Indians shortstop Jose Ramirez (11) scores a run during the ninth inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Can Jose Ramirez prove he’s the whole package?

Kyle Downing: I think that Jose Ramirez will be most improved this season. He’s had time to get acclimated to the big leagues, and his contact rates are off the charts. During the 2014 season, no player on the team had a higher contact rate on pitches outside of the strike zone than Ramirez, and only Brantley had a lower swinging strike rate. He struck out in only 13.1 percent of his plate appearances, good for the third lowest on the team. Ramirez plays great defense at shortstop, and his ability to put the bat on the ball bodes well for his development. His future in Cleveland looks bright.

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Ryan Rosko: My pick for the most improved is Ramirez. He had a solid season last year, and so far this spring, he has continued to make progress, hitting .345 with four RBI’s. Ramirez is going to keep making plays that are going to impact games. For the time being, Ramirez is going to be a great SS, but when Lindor comes to the big leagues, he has shown that he is worthy of being in the lineup somewhere. I mentioned in a game recap recently that when that day comes, Ramirez could play regularly in the outfield, since the infield would be filled. I agree with Kyle that his future is definitely bright.

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Can Jose Ramirez prove he’s the whole package?

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