Dodgers Acquire Speedy Outfielder Esteury Ruiz in Trade with Athletics

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired outfielder Esteury Ruiz from the Oakland Athletics in a trade announced on Wednesday. The A’s will receive right-hander Carlos Duran in exchange.

Ruiz, who was designated for assignment by the Athletics just three days prior, is known for his impressive speed, having led the American League with 67 stolen bases in 2023. This season, the 26-year-old outfielder struggled at the plate during spring training, posting a .121 batting average with only four hits in 33 at-bats.

According to Fabian Ardaya from The Athletic, the Dodgers plan to option Ruiz to their Triple-A affiliate, Oklahoma City. This move may help Ruiz regain his form as he previously served as the A’s starting center fielder. Despite his potential, Ruiz’s inability to find consistent success at the major league level has led to mixed opinions regarding the trade.

In a statement regarding the transaction, Dodgers General Manager Andrew Friedman emphasized the team’s desire for depth in their outfield. Ruiz’s speed adds an additional dimension to their roster. “We feel like he adds value, particularly late in games and in tight situations,” Friedman said.

Meanwhile, the A’s will receive Carlos Duran, a 23-year-old pitcher known for his powerful fastball and breaking pitches. Duran started the season in the Triple-A Oklahoma City Comets’ rotation, where he exhibited promising strikeout numbers, recording eight strikeouts in his first game.

The implications of the trade extend beyond the immediate roster changes. With the A’s designated Ruiz for assignment to make room for left-handed pitcher Angel Perdomo, the franchise continues to navigate a challenging transitional phase. This marks a notable change for Ruiz, who was a key player in the A’s plans after being acquired in a trade that sent catcher Sean Murphy to the Atlanta Braves.

The Dodgers, who currently hold an undefeated record of 7-0, are positioned to leverage Ruiz’s speed throughout the season. His presence on the basepaths is particularly advantageous in high-stakes situations typical of postseason play. “Having a guy who can disrupt the game on the bases is crucial,” a source close to the team remarked.

The future of Ruiz and Duran remains to be seen, as both players have potential yet require time to adapt to their new environments in order to fully harness their capabilities. The Dodgers have one of the strongest systems in the league and may be able to help Ruiz develop into a more reliable hitter.

More details regarding the trade and any additional roster moves will be announced in the coming days.