Jose Ramirez had a record-setting and milestone-reaching regular season with the Cleveland Guardians. He climbed up the franchise’s all-time home runs list and was one home run shy of a 40-40 season, just to name a few.

It only makes sense that this record-setting year would also carry over into the playoffs, and that’s exactly what happened.

Ramirez made franchise history when he took the field in Game of the ALDS against the Detroit Tigers, officially making his sixth playoff appearance with Cleveland. This makes him tied for the most postseason appearances in team history.

The others on that list at Kenny Lofton (1996-’96, 1998-’99, 2001, 2007), Jim Thome (1995-’99, 2001), and Omar Vizquel (1995-’99, 2001).

This stat is even more impressive because 2024 was his twelfth season in the big leagues. That means he’s reached the postseason in half the years he’s been in the majors, which is a testament to how consistently good he and the team have been over the last decade.

For as consistent as J-Ram has been in the regular season, the cumulative postseason stats don’t seem as impressive on the surface.

In his six postseason appearances, Ramirez has hit .236/.290/.339 with an OPS of .629. However, his 2017 playoff performance has dragged down many of those stats. In 2022, the last time he was in the playoffs, Ramirez hit .333/.344/.500 with a .844 OPS.

Ramirez is signed with the Guardians through the 2028 season, and it feels pretty likely the 32-year-old will finish his career in Cleveland. This means he has numerous opportunities in the future to have the most playoff appearances in franchise history.

Outside of the team’s own locker room, you won’t find many people who “trust” the Cleveland Browns right now.

A 1-3 start to the season, that includes back-to-back embarrassing losses to the New York Giants and the Las Vegas Raiders will do that. And yet, as Cleveland rolls into the nation’s capital for a battle with the Commanders, who have suddenly become the darlings of the NFL, a real opportunity to save the season awaits.

Yes – the prospect of slowing down rookie QB Jayden Daniels with his 82.1 completion percentage – and an Commanders offense that has taken the league by storm may feel a little bit daunting. Washington ranks sixth in total offense entering Week 5. Its third in rushing offense, 12th in passing offense, third in points per game and first in third down offense.

Oh yeah, the Commanders also come into Sunday on a three-game win streak. They’re read hot, the Browns are simply not.

One win can change all that. And despite all the hand-wringing over the Commanders offense and electric rookie QB, they are beatable.

For starters, as good as their offense has been, their defense leaves plenty to be desired. That side of the ball ranks 27th in total defense, 23rd in rushing defense, 22nd in passing defense, 25th in points allowed per game and dead last in the NFL on third down defense.

With star quarterback Deshaun Watson coming off of arguably his most complete performance as a member of the Browns, going against a shaky Washington defense presents a pretty unique opportunity for him build upon what he did in Las Vegas last week.

One thing that has eluded Watson since his arrival in Cleveland is the consistency of producing multiple strong outings in a row. He’s got a really good opportunity to buck that trend on Sunday – so long as his receivers catch the ball and his offensive line can get out of their own way.

All that may feel like a big ask right now, but it’s not like the Browns are devoid of talent. Returning to help those efforts are LT Jedrick Wills and TE David Njoku, both expected back in the lineup for Week 5.

Meanwhile, as great as Daniels has been, he’s also a rookie and no rookie goes through a whole season without some growing pains. A defensive front with Myles Garrett and Za’Darius Smith present a pretty massive challenge. And after a week where Jim Schwartz re-emphasized tackling, the issue of so many missed tackles better be corrected.

Anyone picking the Browns to win at this point must be powered by dreams and prayers. A matchup with Washington, darling as they’ve been, is still a favorable one for a number of reasons for the Browns if they just get out of their own way. Again, a big ask.

A single win could get the Browns season back on track in a hurry. So if not now, with their backs against the wall, then when?

Tonita P. Vencl

OBITUARY

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Tonita P. Vencl, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and cherished fur grandma. Tonita entered eternal rest on October 3, 2024. She was born on March 24, 1940, in Cleveland, OH, Tonita was a beacon of warmth and love to all who knew her.Throughout her life, Tonita found profound joy in crafting, baking, and sharing her creations with others. Her passion for baking shone through, and her family and friends were always treated to the delicious fruits of her labor. A baseball enthusiast, Tonita held a special place in her heart for the Cleveland Indians. Her Italian heritage was central to her identity, and her love for her family knew no bounds.In her passing, Tonita leaves behind her loving husband of 63 years, John Vencl, and her children Annette Vencl, Amy Vencl, and John Vencl. She is also survived by her brother Phil Basile (Kathy), sister-in-law Jean Basile, and numerous nieces and nephews. Tonita was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Anthony and Joey.She will always be fondly remembered as the “nice lady” who touched the lives of many with her kindness and generosity.Visitation will take place at Monreal Srnick Funeral Home, 35400 Curtis Blvd, Eastlake, on October 8, 2024, at 4-8pm. A Funeral Mass to celebrate Tonita’s life will be held at St. Mary Magdalene Church, 32114 Vine St, Willowick, on October 9, 2024, at 10:30 am. Tonita will be laid to rest at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon.Tonita’s legacy of love, family, and culinary delights will continue to resonate with all those who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in peace, forever cherished in our hearts.