Despite being a small-market MLB team, the Cleveland Indians/Guardians have several key players worthy of contract extensions to maintain competitiveness. Here are three critical extensions the front office should prioritize:

Jose Ramirez

• One of MLB's best and most underrated hitters
• Current club-friendly deal ending (making $9.4M this year)
• Proposed extension: 5 years/$65M ($13M per year)
• Would keep him through age 35 season in 2028
• Would be franchise's largest deal, exceeding Encarnacion's $60M contract

Shane Bieber

• Potential face of the franchise
• Has shown elite potential early in career
• Could be one of franchise's all-time great pitchers
• Valuable mentor for young pitching staff
• Proposed extension: 7 years/$110M ($15.7M AAV)
• Contract could be front/back-loaded for flexibility

Franmil Reyes

• Power-hitting fan favorite
• Shows consistency with occasional hot streaks
• Limited defensive value but important offensive contributor
• Entering first arbitration year
• Proposed extension: 4 years/$50M
• Value could increase with continued improvement

These extensions would help secure core talent while maintaining payroll flexibility for a small-market team looking to remain competitive long-term.

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