Cleveland Indians: 5 players who could regress in 2017

4 of 6

Oct 7, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians third baseman Jose Ramirez (11) hits a single against the Boston Red Sox in the fifth inning during game two of the 2016 ALDS playoff baseball series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Jose Ramirez

Fresh off of a career year, the Indians realized the future of Jose Ramirez. The two sides agreed to a five-year extension with $26 million guaranteed.

After being one of the Tribe’s most consistent hitters in 2016, Ramirez found himself creeping up the batting order, turning into the Tribe’s everyday third baseman. He ended the regular season with 176 hits on his way to a .312 batting average.

Ramirez also led the team in doubles with 46, and accumulated the least amount of strikeouts amongst the starters.

In spite of his remarkable season, it was the first time he achieved season-long success in his career. Although he is young, Ramirez has been a member of the Tribe for four years. In his previous season, Ramirez hit just .219 in 97 games.

Related: 10 bold predictions for 2017

The reason Ramirez will likely regress isn’t because last season was an accident. Replicating last season’s production, where he finished third in the Majors in doubles and 12th in batting average, is not probable. That’s not to say it can’t be done, but for someone who is experiencing success really for their first time, it’s unlikely.

Indians fans are hoping to see Ramirez pick up right where he left off. Don’t expect his production to disappear, but look for his numbers to regress, which is only natural.

Home/Cleveland Guardians News