Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt made a questionable decision by starting Daniel Espino in Game 3 of the American League Division Series. However, Vogt also deserves credit. He's continued to stick with Jose Ramirez despite the Guardians star's difficult season. Vogt's trust paid off on Wednesday, as Ramirez came through both on offense and defense — a performance that led Cleveland to a 9-3 Game 3 win over the Chicago White Sox to keep the team's season alive.

Chicago now leads the series 2-1.

Ramirez went 2-4 with two RBI, two runs scored, a triple and one walk at the plate. His two-RBI triple in the top of the 8th inning gave Cleveland two additional insurance runs, making the score 7-3. It is worth mentioning that Ramirez stole a base as well.

It was a tremendous all-around offensive performance for the seven-time All-Star. He reminded the MLB world of just how good he can be at the plate.

José Ramírez two-run triple

Guardians double their lead in the 8th! pic.twitter.com/F1ZnIkWbIZ

— MLB (@MLB) October 7, 2026

Defensively, Ramirez made what could arguably be a season-saving play. Miguel Vargas was hitting in the bottom of the 6th inning and the bases loaded in a 5-3 game against Cleveland reliever Hunter Gaddis. The White Sox star connected on the 3-2 delivery and sent a line drive down to the hot corner. Ramirez knocked the ball down and calmly threw Vargas out at first base.

If the ball had gotten past Ramirez, the White Sox would have captured momentum while tying the game. The Guardians would have had an especially challenging time getting the momentum back on the road. Instead, Ramirez's defensive highlight kept Cleveland in front and ended the inning.

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Jose Ramirez underwent hamate surgery during the regular season. The issue has continued to impact him, but Ramirez is refusing to use it as an excuse. Although he hasn't been the same All-Star caliber player this season that Guardians fans are used to seeing, the 34-year-old proved he still has it with his electric Game 3 performance.