Tampa Bay Rays bullpen catcher Jean Ramirez, aged 28, passed away by suicide in Fort Worth, Texas, as confirmed by the Tarrant County medical examiner’s record, the team announced on Tuesday.
Rays manager Kevin Cash fondly remembered Ramirez, highlighting his vibrant personality and unwavering dedication to the team and the sport. Cash expressed deep condolences to Ramirez’s family and friends, emphasizing the profound impact he had on everyone he encountered.
Ramirez’s journey with the Rays began when he was drafted in the 28th round out of Illinois State in the 2016 amateur draft. After spending three seasons in the minors with the Rays’ rookie and Low-A teams, he transitioned to become the team’s bullpen catcher in 2019, providing invaluable support to the relief corps.
The news of Ramirez’s passing deeply saddened his family, who emphasized the importance of addressing mental health struggles and breaking the stigma surrounding seeking help. They pledged to honor Ramirez’s memory by advocating for mental health awareness and support for families facing similar challenges.
In addition to his role as bullpen catcher, Ramirez made significant contributions beyond the field. He occasionally served as a batting practice pitcher and utilized his fluency in Spanish to connect with and mentor the team’s relievers.
As the Rays mourned the loss of Ramirez, Erik Neander, the team’s president of baseball operations, reflected on the cherished memories shared with Ramirez and expressed gratitude for his presence within the organization.
In light of this tragedy, it is crucial to remember that help is available for those struggling with suicidal thoughts or emotional distress. Organizations like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offer support and resources for individuals in need.
