Report: Ramirez to sign six-year deal

May 10, 2008 - 9:55 PM MIAMI (Ticker) -- Florida Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez apparently is on the verge of signing the richest contract in franchise history.

The Miami Herald reported Saturday that Ramirez, the face of the franchise, and the Marlins have tentatively agreed to a six-year contract worth $70 million.

According to the Herald, the deal is not expected to be announced for a few days.

The financially-strapped Marlins, whose team payroll of $21.8 million is the lowest in the major leagues, have been negotiating a long-term contract with Ramirez, the 2006 National League Rookie of the Year.

While somewhat overlooked playing in Florida, the 24-year-old Ramirez is one of the game's most exciting players.

Acquired in the deal that sent Josh Beckett and Mike Lowell to the Boston Red Sox following the 2005 season, Ramirez hit .314 with 54 home runs and 161 RBI in his two-plus seasons in the major leagues.

Last season, Ramirez tied for third in the NL batting race with a .332 average and tied for second in hits with 212.

Through 35 games this season, Ramirez is hitting .336 with eight homers and 21 RBI. He is a main reason why the surprising Marlins, who lead the NL East, have gotten off to the best start in franchise history at 21-14.