NEW DEAL: Braves Sign Prominent Outfielder From MiLB Amid Injury Crisis
The Atlanta Braves have signed veteran outfielder Harold Ramirez to a minor league contract, as reported by Gwinnett Stripers broadcaster Dave Lezotte earlier today.
The #Braves have signed former Marlins, Guardians, Rays, and Nationals OF Harold Ramirez to a MiLB deal today, and he is in the lineup for @GoStripers tonight in Louisville. Batting in the cleanup spot, playing RF.
— Dave Lezotte (@DaveLezotte) August 23, 2024
The Washington Nationals released Ramirez earlier this month. He started the season with the Tampa Bay Rays. The nearly 30-year-old outfielder has appeared in 73 games this season and has an OPS+ of 73. He was far better in his previous two seasons with the Rays, including a 125 OPS+ last season.400 at bats yielded a slash line of 313/.353/.460.
It is a risk-free move for the Braves because Ramirez would only be paid the minimum if he appeared for Atlanta this season. Ramirez adds depth for Gwinnett, which has placed Yuri Gurriel on the 7-day injured list, as reported by Lezotte.
INF Yuli Gurriel was placed on the @GoStripers 7-day Injured List.
— Dave Lezotte (@DaveLezotte) August 23, 2024
Given the number of ailments endured by the Braves this season, Ramirez provides another safety net if additional concerns surface for the major league team. It also provides the organisation time to assess whether he could be a depth option for the 2025 season.
Since his debut with the Miami Marlins in 2019, the right-handed batter has played 536 games at first base.