CLEVELAND, Ohio — Just ahead of experiencing his 11th home opener, Guardians veteran third baseman José Ramírez told reporters he still finds opening day in Cleveland to be a magical occasion.

“Regardless of the number, it’s really special to be here anytime you’re in an opening day game, especially at home,” Ramírez said Tuesday via Guardians interpreter Agustin Rivero. “It’s just the energy, the things that you see around. It’s really special to be in these type of games.”

Ramírez has seen it all from a player’s perspective. A six-time All-Star, he has finished in the top five in MVP voting five times, won four Silver Slugger Awards and led his team to the postseason on six occasions. But in a sport defined by its grinding repetition over a 162-game schedule, Cleveland’s home opener maintains a unique aura for the Dominican native.

It is a celebration that transcends sport — a chance for the city to come together and rally around Ramírez and his teammates — and an annual event that strengthens the bond between the Guardians and their fans. After signing a contract extension to stay with the club prior to the 2022 season, Ramírez’s appreciation for such moments and his deep connection to Cleveland have continued to grow.

Unlike superstars who jump between franchises chasing championships or contracts, Ramírez has become symbolic of the organization. He is a constant in the lineup and in the hearts of fans, making every opener another chapter in a career that could someday land him on the front steps of the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.

This year, Ramírez has his longtime friend, countryman and former mentor Carlos Santana back by his side as the club embarks upon another championship chase.

“It’s very special,” Ramírez said. “I’m very happy to have him back. He was one of the guys who helped me the most when I got called up. So, it’s kind of a special feeling having that guy around and seeing where we are in our careers now.”

Ramírez and Santana embody the organization’s continuity and culture with values passed between generations of players. As Cleveland navigates the challenges of a new season, the relationship between Ramírez and Santana remains something powerful that won’t show up in box scores but might just make a difference when the games matter most: A bond that transcends the business of baseball.

Tuesday’s opener also marked another special occasion as it was Santana’s 39th birthday. Ramirez was asked what gift he intended to give his friend before playfully responding with a smile and a gesture: “Two smacks in the face.”

Tuesday’s return to Progressive Field also marked the first game for players in the ballpark’s newly renovated clubhouse and training facilities. When asked about the new-look player spaces and clubhouse, Ramírez sounded his enthusiastic endorsement.

The investment in player facilities represents the Guardians’ commitment to creating an environment where players can thrive. Such behind-the-scenes improvements impact player performance in ways that could ultimately manifest on the field.

“It’s beautiful,” he said. “I’m very happy about the level of comfort that we have around. Very happy with the job the team did.”