Cleveland Guardians activate Jose Ramirez from injured list

The Cleveland Guardians have officially activated third baseman Jose Ramirez from the 10-day injured list as of Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The move returns the seven-time All-Star to the lineup in time for the team's matchup against the Minnesota Twins at Progressive Field.

Ramirez had been sidelined since June 13, when he sustained a left hamate fracture. He underwent surgery to address the injury on June 16. His recovery process bypassed a minor-league rehab assignment, a decision managed by the organization in coordination with the veteran player. Manager Stephen Vogt noted that because of the veteran's extensive experience and self-awareness regarding his physical condition, the team chose to rely on direct communication with Ramirez to gauge his readiness for major-league play.

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"With Hosey, it's a little different. You got somebody who's older, who knows his body, who's been doing it for a long time. You kind of just lean on him."

Stephen Vogt, manager, via Yahoo Sports

This approach mirrors previous injury recovery for the infielder. When he suffered a similar fracture to his right hand in 2019, he also bypassed a rehab assignment and subsequently hit a home run in his first game back. The current recovery window—which lasted five weeks—fell within the initial projections of five to seven weeks established after his procedure.

The activation of Ramirez coincides with a roster adjustment; the Guardians have optioned outfielder Kahlil Watson to the Triple-A Columbus Clippers. Watson, who debuted shortly after Ramirez was sidelined, concluded his major-league stint with a .239/.264/.341 slash line. During his time on the active roster, Watson recorded a seven-game hitting streak toward the end of June and provided key hits, including a walk-off performance against the Chicago White Sox earlier in July.

The return of their primary offensive threat comes as the Guardians navigate a tight race in the American League Central Division. Entering play on July 22, the club held a record of 54-48. While currently tied with the Chicago White Sox in the division standings, the Guardians continue to monitor their offensive production as they look to secure their third consecutive division title.

Statistical Summary: Season Performance

*Statistics provided by WKBN via Yahoo Sports; **Statistics provided by Lionswire and News5cleveland.

Beyond the return of Ramirez, reporting from The Sporting News suggests that the Guardians may still explore the trade market to address gaps in outfield power. Potential targets suggested by analysts include Jo Adell and Mickey Moniak, both of whom have been identified as players who could offer increased slugging potential for a modest financial and prospect investment as the trade deadline approaches.

As the second half of the season progresses, the organization is looking for an immediate impact from Ramirez, who will occupy the second spot in the batting order for his return game.

What to Watch Next

• Performance Monitoring: Observing how Ramirez manages the physical demands of playing third base following his surgery.
• Division Standing: Tracking the ongoing series against the Minnesota Twins to see if the offense gains traction following the roster change.
• Trade Deadline: Monitoring further roster adjustments as the front office evaluates the need for additional outfield production.