Ramon Laureano’s New Contract with the Baltimore Orioles
On February 4, the Baltimore Orioles announced a one-year contract with outfielder Ramon Laureano. This deal comes with a significant twist: a $6.5 million team option for the 2026 season, which gives the Orioles flexibility and control over the future of their roster. The base contract guarantees Laureano $4 million, ensuring he has a stable financial foundation for the upcoming season. Additionally, the Orioles have shown their appreciation for Laureano by providing him with a hotel suite on road trips, a small but thoughtful gesture that can make a big difference in a player’s comfort and well-being during the grueling baseball season.
Incentives and Award Potential
Laureano’s contract is not just about the guaranteed money; it also includes several performance-based incentives. If he were to win the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, he would earn an additional $100,000. Similarly, finishing second in MVP voting would net him $75,000, and a third-place finish would bring in $50,000. These incentives not only reward Laureano for his exceptional play but also motivate him to strive for the best performance possible. The contract also offers Laureano $100,000 if he earns the World Series MVP title, a significant bonus that reflects the Orioles’ belief in his potential to perform at the highest level. Additionally, he would receive $50,000 for making the All-Star team, winning a Gold Glove, a Silver Slugger, or being named the League Championship Series MVP. These bonuses underscore the team’s confidence in Laureano’s defensive and offensive skills and his role as a key contributor to the Orioles’ aspirations.
A Season of Transition
Last year was a season of transition for Ramon Laureano. He started the year with the Cleveland Guardians but was released on May 25. Just four days later, he signed with the Atlanta Braves, marking a quick and somewhat unexpected change in his professional journey. Despite the mid-season move, Laureano managed to put up respectable numbers, hitting .259 with 11 home runs and 33 RBIs. His salary for the 2023 season was $5.15 million, and his performance, though consistent, did not quite reach the heights he achieved in previous years. This resilience and ability to adapt quickly to new environments are qualities that the Orioles clearly value and hope to see continue in 2024.
A Proven Performer
Over the course of his seven-season career, Ramon Laureano has established himself as a formidable presence on the field. He has played for the Oakland Athletics (2018-2023), Cleveland Guardians (2023-2024), and now the Atlanta Braves. During this time, he has accumulated a .247 batting average, 82 home runs, and 252 RBIs. These numbers, while not astronomical, speak to his consistency and reliability as a player. Laureano’s power-hitting ability and solid defensive skills have made him a valuable asset to any team, and his experience in different organizations has broadened his perspective and improved his versatility. The Orioles are banking on his proven track record to help bolster their lineup and defense in the upcoming season.
The Human Side of Ramon Laureano
Beyond the statistics and the contract details, Ramon Laureano is a person with a rich backstory and a passion for the game. He has faced challenges and setbacks, both on and off the field, but has consistently shown resilience and dedication. His journey from being released by the Guardians to finding a new home with the Braves and now the Orioles is a testament to his character and work ethic. Laureano is known for his positive attitude and team-first mentality, which can be infectious and beneficial to the morale of the team. The Orioles are not just acquiring a talented player; they are bringing in a teammate who can contribute to a winning culture and support his fellow players.
Looking Ahead to 2024
With his new contract in place, Ramon Laureano is set to bring his impressive skills and experience to the Baltimore Orioles. The team’s decision to include a team option for 2026 shows their long-term investment in his abilities and the belief that he can be a key player in their future success. Laureano’s diverse experience in different organizations and his consistent performance make him a valuable addition to the Orioles’ roster. As he prepares for the 2024 season, the incentives in his contract will serve as both a challenge and a motivator. Fans and teammates alike will be watching to see how he performs in his new environment, and the Orioles are optimistic that he will rise to the occasion and help lead the team to greater heights.
