RADIO
BALLER MOVE: Add in 14+ team leagues
OWNERSHIP: 18% in Fleaflicker leagues
ANALYSIS: Alexei Ramirez, aka The Cuban Missile, has been a fairly steady performer throughout his career. He has logged seven seasons of 13 or more stolen bases, including three with over 20 SB. He also has five seasons of 15 or more home runs. Finally, he has played one season without producing at least 62 RBI. The only difference this year for Ramirez is the uniform he's wearing. He is moving from a more hitter-friendly environment with the AL White Sox to the cavernous confines of Petco Park in the NL. Generally, we can predict his numbers might trend downward a bit due to these factors.
In reality, Ramirez is still the same player and has remained remarkably healthy his entire MLB career, never missing extended time. The 20/20 ceiling may no longer be there for the 34-year-old, but there is something to be said for consistency. Ramirez provides comfort at a position that is not deep in the power/speed categories. The Padres' young shortstop prospects are not ready for prime time yet and likely will not be called up until 2017. If you need a solid MI or backup SS, Ramirez is almost a sure bet to help you maintain numbers across all categories - no tradeoffs here and no worries.
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