Jose Ramirez has been the driving force behind the Cleveland Guardians' unexpected playoff push in 2022. Currently sitting just two games out of first place in the AL Central with a 34-28 record, the Guardians' success can largely be attributed to their star third baseman's MVP-caliber performance.

Ramirez is having his best season yet, slashing .306/.399/.649 with a career-high 1.048 OPS. His impressive stats include:

• 62 RBI (leads MLB)
• 16 home runs
• 34 walks
• Only 19 strikeouts
• 3.8 offensive WAR (highest in baseball)
• 11 stolen bases

During the Guardians' recent 13-3 stretch, Ramirez has been particularly dominant:

• .344 batting average
• 4 home runs
• 14 RBI
• 9 doubles
• 8 consecutive games with extra-base hits

His impact on the team is clear when comparing his numbers to teammates:

• 16 HRs vs 7 HRs (next highest)
• 62 RBI vs 34 RBI (next highest)
• 144 total bases vs 83 (next highest)

Beyond the statistics, Ramirez's durability (playing all 59 games) and all-around excellence in power, speed, and plate discipline make him irreplaceable. While the Guardians have received contributions from others and boast a top-10 pitching staff, Ramirez's performance is the primary reason they remain in playoff contention.

Without Jose Ramirez, the Guardians would likely be a .500 team at best. His consistent excellence and recent hot streak have established him as not only Cleveland's most valuable player but also a legitimate AL MVP candidate.

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