Hanley Ramirez: 2013 has ‘been the best year in my career’

Between two stints on the disabled list and his current back problem, Dodger shortstop Hanley Ramirez has missed more than 55 games to injury this season. That means he’ll have to play in all 13 of the Dodgers’ remaining regular-season games just to match the career-low 92 games he appeared in three years ago.

But Ramirez said the experience has been far from frustrating.

“It’s been the best year in my career. I’m going to the playoffs for the first time,” said Ramirez, who is hitting .342, matching his 2009 mark which led the National League. “I don’t put negative in my mind.

“I’m really happy to be here. Every day I’ve got a chance to come here and play for this organization. It’s been great man. I’ve been blessed.”

Ramirez took two cortisone shots in his back Friday to calm an irritated nerve that has bothered him the last three seasons.

He hopes to return to the lineup when the Dodgers open their final road trip of the regular season Monday in Arizona.