The Los Angeles Dodgers made a significant move on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, acquiring outfielder Esteury Ruiz from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for minor league right-hander Carlos Duran. This trade comes just days after Ruiz was designated for assignment by the A's, highlighting the Dodgers' pursuit of speed and versatility in their roster.
Ruiz, a 26-year-old right-handed hitter, is best known for his explosive speed on the base paths. In 2023, he led the American League with an impressive 67 stolen bases, a record for rookies in the AL. During that season, he played in 132 games, slashing .254/.309/.345 while also contributing five home runs and 47 RBIs. His performance earned him recognition as a potential game-changer for the Dodgers.
Despite his success in 2023, Ruiz's 2024 season was marred by injuries, including a significant left wrist injury that sidelined him for nearly seven weeks. He also underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee in September 2024, which limited his appearances to just 29 games, where he managed a disappointing .200/.270/.382 batting line.
To make room for Ruiz on their 40-man roster, the Dodgers transferred right-handed pitcher Kyle Hurt to the 60-day injured list. Hurt, who has been dealing with elbow issues, had made a solid start to the season at Triple-A Oklahoma City, allowing just one run in 4 1/3 innings with eight strikeouts.
Ruiz will report to the Dodgers' Triple-A affiliate in Oklahoma City, where he can regain his form and provide depth for the big league club. The Dodgers are optimistic that Ruiz can bounce back from his injury struggles and return to his 2023 form, where he ranked in the 97th percentile in sprint speed and 95th percentile in baserunning run value, according to Statcast.
"Esteury brings a unique skill set to our team, especially with his speed and ability to play multiple positions," said Dodgers' General Manager. "We believe he can be a valuable asset as we look to enhance our lineup and compete for the postseason."
Ruiz's journey to the Dodgers has been quite the ride. He was originally signed by the Kansas City Royals on July 3, 2015, and has since been traded multiple times, including a notable move to the Milwaukee Brewers as part of the package for closer Josh Hader. His career has seen ups and downs, but the Dodgers are confident in his potential to make an impact.
On the other hand, Carlos Duran, the pitcher sent to the Athletics, is a promising right-hander who stands at 6-foot-7. The 23-year-old has shown flashes of brilliance in the Dodgers' minor league system, posting a 4.73 ERA with 73 strikeouts across 53 innings last season. Duran started this season strong at Triple-A, allowing just one run in his only start, making him an intriguing addition to the Athletics' pitching staff.
This trade not only signifies the Dodgers' commitment to strengthening their roster but also reflects the current dynamics of the league, where teams are constantly looking to maximize their potential through strategic trades. Ruiz's speed and versatility could provide the Dodgers with the edge they need in tight games, particularly as they aim for another deep playoff run.
The acquisition of Ruiz is particularly timely as the Dodgers prepare for a grueling schedule ahead. With the season still in its early stages, the team is looking to solidify its position in the competitive National League West. The Dodgers have dealt with injuries in their outfield, and adding a player with Ruiz's speed could be crucial as they navigate the challenges of the season.
Dodgers fans will be eagerly watching Ruiz's progress in the minor leagues, hoping for a swift return to form that could see him contributing to the big league club sooner rather than later. His ability to steal bases and create havoc on the base paths could provide the Dodgers with an additional weapon as they look to outpace their rivals in the division.
In summary, the Dodgers' trade for Esteury Ruiz marks an exciting chapter in his career and a strategic move for the team as they look to enhance their roster. With his proven track record of speed and defensive capabilities, Ruiz has the potential to become a key player for the Dodgers as they aim for success in the 2025 season.
