Pedro Ramos, Cuban baseball player

Pedro Ramos Guerra, often known affectionately as "Pete" Ramos, was a remarkable figure in Major League Baseball, a Cuban-born professional pitcher whose career spanned an impressive 15 seasons from 1955 to 1967 and then again from 1969 to 1970. Born on April 28, 1935, Ramos's journey in the big leagues took him across both the American League (AL) and the National League (NL), showcasing his enduring talent and resilience during an era when Cuban players often faced unique challenges and garnered significant attention.

His pitching arm graced the mounds for a variety of storied franchises across the professional landscape. In the American League, he played for the original Washington Senators (who later relocated and became the Minnesota Twins), the Cleveland Indians, the iconic New York Yankees, and even the expansion Washington Senators. In the National League, his stops included the Philadelphia Phillies, the Pittsburgh Pirates, and the Cincinnati Reds. This extensive list of teams underscores the demand for his services and his durability throughout his career.

Ramos's career statistics present a fascinating blend of individual accolades and team challenges. He earned a prestigious spot on the AL All-Star team in 1959, a testament to his skill and effectiveness against the league's top hitters during that season. Yet, he also holds the unusual distinction of leading the American League in losses four times: in 1958 (18), 1959 (19), 1960 (18), and 1961 (20). This often indicates a durable workhorse pitcher who frequently took the ball for teams that struggled to provide consistent offensive or defensive support, absorbing many tough-luck defeats while pitching deep into games.

A particularly significant moment early in his career came on April 11, 1961, when he made history as the winning pitcher in the Minnesota Twins' inaugural game. Facing the formidable New York Yankees at their legendary Yankee Stadium, Ramos guided his nascent team to a commanding 6-0 victory, etching his name into the franchise's fresh history books.

The Unexpected Yankee Sensation of 1964

While primarily a starting pitcher for most of his career, Pedro "Pete" Ramos famously transitioned into an unexpected and electrifying relief ace during the intense September 1964 pennant race. Having been traded to the New York Yankees from the Cleveland Indians on August 3 for a sum of $75,000 and two players to be named later, Ramos arrived at a critical juncture for the team. After the season concluded, those "players to be named later"—a common trade mechanism in baseball allowing teams to finalize components of a deal after a specific period—were revealed to be pitchers Ralph Terry and Bud Daley.

Ramos's impact on the Yankees was immediate and profound. In 13 appearances, all coming out of the bullpen, he delivered a sensational performance. He notched an impressive eight saves and posted a microscopic 1.25 earned-run average across 21 innings pitched. What truly stood out was his exceptional control: in those crucial 21 innings, Ramos struck out 21 batters without issuing a single walk, a remarkable display of precision under immense pressure. His stellar relief work was instrumental in helping the Yankees narrowly fend off the surging Chicago White Sox and Baltimore Orioles to clinch the American League pennant, securing their spot in the World Series.

However, a bitter twist of fate awaited Ramos and the Yankees. Due to Major League Baseball's long-standing rule that a player acquired after the August 31 trade deadline is ineligible for postseason play, Ramos was unfortunately barred from pitching in the World Series. The Yankees went on to face the formidable St. Louis Cardinals, led by the legendary ace Bob Gibson, in a thrilling contest that New York ultimately lost in seven games. Ramos's absence from the mound in that crucial series undoubtedly left many fans and observers wondering what might have been, given his sensational form.

Memorable Moments: Facing Mickey Mantle and a Sprint Challenge

Beyond his pitching prowess, Ramos was also part of some iconic moments in baseball history. As a young Senator in his second big-league season, he famously surrendered one of the most legendary home runs in the illustrious career of New York Yankees slugger Mickey Mantle. On May 30, 1956, Mantle connected with a Ramos pitch and launched a prodigious blast that reportedly nearly left Yankee Stadium entirely, instead striking the facade of the top deck in right field – a testament to Mantle's incredible power and a display of the pitcher's willingness to challenge the game's very best sluggers.

Interestingly, both Ramos and Mantle were known for more than just their on-field skills; they were also considered among the fastest runners in the major leagues during their prime. This led to an informal, yet highly anticipated, race between the two speedsters, adding a touch of competitive fun to their rivalry. In a moment that has become a colorful anecdote, Ramos, unfortunately, stumbled at the start, allowing Mantle to claim victory in their sprint showdown, further cementing their shared history.

Ramos at the Plate and in the Field

While primarily a pitcher, Pedro Ramos was not entirely devoid of offensive capabilities, especially for a player of his position. He occasionally posed a home run threat, a relatively rare trait among pitchers of his era. Over his career, he posted a .155 batting average, collecting 109 hits in 703 at-bats. He scored 76 runs and drove in 56 runs batted in (RBI), notably hitting 15 career home runs – a significant total for a pitcher and a clear demonstration of his athletic abilities. Defensively, Ramos was a reliable presence on the mound and around it, recording a solid .977 fielding percentage, which reflects his competence in handling bunts, fielding comebackers, and covering bases.

FAQs

What was Pedro Ramos's full name and when was he born?

Pedro Ramos Guerra was born on April 28, 1935.

Which MLB teams did Pedro Ramos play for during his career?

He played for the Washington Senators / Minnesota Twins, Cleveland Indians, New York Yankees, and the expansion Washington Senators in the American League, as well as the Philadelphia Phillies, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Cincinnati Reds in the National League.

What was a notable achievement early in Pedro Ramos's career?

Pedro Ramos was elected to the American League All-Star team in 1959. He also served as the winning pitcher in the Minnesota Twins' first-ever game on April 11, 1961, securing a 6-0 victory against the New York Yankees.

Why was Pedro Ramos's 1964 season with the New York Yankees particularly significant?

After being traded to the Yankees mid-season, Ramos transitioned from a starter to a dominant relief pitcher in September 1964. He recorded 8 saves and a remarkable 1.25 ERA with 21 strikeouts and no walks in 21 innings, a performance that was crucial in helping the Yankees win the AL pennant.

Why was Pedro Ramos ineligible to play in the 1964 World Series?

He was acquired by the Yankees after the August 31 trade deadline for postseason eligibility, meaning that despite his stellar performance, he could not participate in the World Series, which the Yankees ultimately lost to the St. Louis Cardinals.

Did Pedro Ramos ever have a notable encounter with Mickey Mantle?

Yes, on May 30, 1956, Ramos surrendered one of Mickey Mantle's most powerful home runs, a blast that famously hit the facade of the top deck at Yankee Stadium. They also had an informal race, which Mantle won after Ramos stumbled at the start.

Was Pedro Ramos considered a good hitter for a pitcher?

For a pitcher, he was quite capable at the plate, considered an occasional home run threat. He hit 15 career home runs and posted a .155 batting average, which was respectable for a player in his position during that era.