Tampa Bay Rays Bullpen Catcher Jean Ramirez Passes Away at 28

Jean Ramirez, the bullpen catcher for the Tampa Bay Rays, has passed away at age 28.

On Wednesday, the baseball team announced the tragic news but did not disclose his cause of death or details surrounding his passing.

In a statement, Rays manager Kevin Cash remembered Ramirez as “an incredible teammate and friend.”

“He brought so much passion and energy each day to our clubhouse and bullpen, and his love for the Rays and baseball was evident to all who interacted with him,” Cash said. “He had the biggest heart and most infectious smile. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. Jean will be deeply missed.”

“He exuded so much joy in all he did, and his kind heart was truly a gift to all,” added Rays’ president of baseball operations Erik Neander. “As we process this unexpected and difficult loss, we are grateful for the times we shared with Jean.”

Born in Puerto Rico, Ramirez attended Boswell High School in Fort Worth, Texas, and played college baseball at the University of Arkansas. He later attended and graduated from Illinois State University.

After his career at ISU, he was drafted by the Rays in the 28th round and went on to play catcher in the team’s minor league system for three seasons.

In 2019, he became the team’s bullpen catcher, which is technically an assistant coaching role.