Dodgers News: Top Prospect Keibert Ruiz Promoted to AAA
Dodgers’ top prospect Keibert Ruiz is receiving a day-late birthday present from the organization as they are promoting him to the Triple-A Oklahoma City Dodgers.
Top #Dodgers prospect Keibert Ruiz is on the move to @okc_dodgers after being promoted on Sunday.
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— Minor League Baseball (@MiLB) July 21, 2019
The deal was first reported by Michael Duarte of NBC Los Angeles on Twitter and confirmed by Ron Cervenka of Think Blue LA.
Ruiz is considered by many evaluators to be one of the most talented prospects in baseball. He ranges anywhere from 12th overall by FanGraphs to 52nd overall by Baseball America. He is ranked as the Dodgers best or second-best prospect by every prospect evaluating publication.
The now 21-year-old catcher has been having a down season in Double-A Tulsa but has still shown the traits that make him a top prospect. Known for his elite bat control and plate discipline, Ruiz posted a 9% walk rate while striking out only 6.8% of the time. He was hitting .254/.329/.330 in 310 plate appearances before the promotion.
As you zoom in to that lower left part of the graph where comparable seasons are, it becomes apparent. This chart area is DENSE with superstars, future stars & ex-elite prospects. As always, there are some names that didn’t pan out, but theres FAR more studs than busts. (2/5) pic.twitter.com/hCh8PiqwGx
— Connor Kurcon (@ckurcon) August 27, 2018
The move to the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League could help get Ruiz back on track and put up the numbers he is expected to.
Who’s ready for some juiced ball Keibert Ruiz?
— Future Dodgers (@FutureDodgers) July 20, 2019
The promotion could also be a good sign for catcher Will Smith, who is knocking on the door for a full-time job in the big leagues. There’s also a chance another organization asked to see him at Triple-A during trade negotiations.
Ruiz is staying. Smith is staying. Barnes is staying. Martin is staying. Catcher is the second most wanted position today, and rightfully so. Having a surplus at the position is a HUGE luxury, and the front office is aware of that. This is where the Dodgers hold the cards when it comes to trades. A good catcher is worth the same as a middle of the order pitcher, or front-line reliever. The dodgers have the catching position set up for the next 10-12 years. This did not happen by accident.
So all 4 should stay for 2 positions at the big league level. I’m not sure how that helps now because at some point you have to play and win for today. I don’t agree that keeping all of them is the way to go. Like you said, C is the second most wanted position, so wouldn’t it make sense to make a deal for the position that the current club most lacks?
Jim, sometimes its incumbent to deal some talent to get some talent and complete one’s task. Barnes is doing little to aid us, and neither is Martin. I would keep the latter and package Barnes in a deal for anyone who wants him. Let our young catchers learn from Martin. Ruiz and Smith are the future. I just might trade Ruiz to the Pirates for Vasquez in a larger package as the Bucs have a catcher who is often on a concussion protocol.
To make an omlete, one has to break some eggs. Now might be the time!!!! Go Blue!!!!
Hmmm. Interesting. Could be either scenario. Smith to the big club or Ruiz in a trade audition. Great insight! At any rate, Ruiz should bring a solid trade return if paired with another prospect. (relief help, anyone??)
Or maybe they’re sticking Barnes somewhere in a trade hopefully lol
Since the Dodgers will need both Smith and Ruiz in the near future, trading either makes no sense. As for those who suggest Barnes and Martin aren’t currently helping the team, catcher is primarily a defensive position. Also, the Dodgers lead the league in all the major offensive categories. In no way is the team’s offense a problem. You don’t fix what isn’t broken.