By David Saltzer, AngelsWin.com Senior Writer
Carlos Ramirez is a player who has flown a bit under the radar in the Angels organization. Drafted in the 8th round of the June, 2009 draft (261st overall), Ramirez got off to a hot start in 2009 (.376/.500/.638 in 42 games at Orem) before struggling in 2010 (.226/.337/.381 in 77 games at Cedar Rapids).
However, as AngelsWin.com pointed out in our Top-50 Prospect List for 2011, “Of all the Angels’ Top Prospects last year, probably none of them had a more Jeckyll and Hyde season than Carlos Ramirez. Prior to the All-Star Break, Ramirez posted a .596 OPS. After the All-Star Break, Ramirez posted an .869 OPS.”
Because of Ramirez’s strong on-base skills (70 walks vs. 98 Ks in 119 games) AngelsWin.com expected Ramirez to return to form this year. And, that’s what happened. Playing at 3 different levels in 2011, Ramirez posted a .312/.385/.463 line with 24 doubles and 7 HRs in 87 games.
Defensively, Ramirez has always been a strong player. In 3 seasons with the Angels, he has thrown 33% of opposing base runners. In July, the Angels acknowledged his defensive prowess with the Defensive Player of the Month Award.
In talking with the 66ers pitchers, they all feel very confident with Ramirez behind the dish. Several have said that he calls a great game and that they know that they can throw any pitch in any count when he’s playing.
AngelsWin.com interviewed Carlos Ramirez to find out more about him as a person and a player. Click below to view our interview with him.