The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a strategic move by acquiring outfielder Esteury Ruiz from the Oakland Athletics in a trade finalized on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. The deal, which sees the Dodgers parting ways with right-handed pitcher Carlos Duran, aims to bolster the team's outfield depth and provide a much-needed speedster to their roster.
Esteury Ruiz, 26, is known for his exceptional base-stealing ability, having led the American League with 67 stolen bases in 2023, setting an AL rookie record. This impressive feat surpassed the previous record of 66 stolen bases set by Kenny Lofton in 1992 while with the Cleveland Indians. However, Ruiz’s journey has not been without challenges. After a promising 2023 season, he faced significant setbacks due to injuries, limiting his participation to just 29 games in 2024. He underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee in late September after dealing with a left wrist strain that sidelined him for two months.
In his only full season, Ruiz posted a batting average of .254, hitting five home runs, along with 24 doubles and 47 RBIs. Despite his speed and defensive capabilities—he recorded three Outs Above Average—his overall defensive performance was mixed, allowing -20 Defensive Runs Saved. This inconsistency, coupled with the emergence of other prospects in the Athletics organization, led to his designation for assignment on March 30, 2025, just days before the trade.
As part of the trade, the Dodgers transferred pitcher Kyle Hurt to the 60-day injured list to make room for Ruiz on their 40-man roster. Ruiz will initially report to the Dodgers' Triple-A affiliate, where he aims to prove himself and earn a spot on the major league roster. The Dodgers are optimistic that Ruiz can develop into a valuable asset, particularly as a base-stealing threat off the bench and a potential fill-in at both center field and second base.
On the other side of the deal, the Athletics welcomed Carlos Duran, a promising 23-year-old right-handed pitcher. Duran, who stands at 6-foot-7, has shown potential in the Dodgers' minor league system. He made 19 starts across three levels in 2024, recording a 4.73 ERA with 73 strikeouts over 53.1 innings. His strong performance in the minors, including a solid showing in his first Triple-A start where he allowed only one run while striking out eight, makes him a valuable addition to the Athletics as they continue their rebuilding efforts.
For the Dodgers, the acquisition of Ruiz reflects their commitment to enhancing their outfield options. With current starters like Teoscar Hernández and Michael Conforto, along with utility players Kiké Hernández and Chris Taylor, the Dodgers are well-equipped. However, Ruiz's speed and potential could add an exciting dynamic to their game plan, especially as they look to defend their World Series title.
The Dodgers' front office has shown a keen eye for talent, and Ruiz's speed could be a game-changer in tight situations. The team is currently assessing how best to integrate him into their lineup, particularly in critical late-game scenarios where speed on the bases can make all the difference.
As for Duran, he now has the opportunity to carve out a role with the Athletics, who are looking to build a competitive roster for the future. Duran’s skill set, highlighted by his strikeout potential, positions him as a key piece in the Athletics' pitching rotation moving forward.
In summary, this trade marks a significant moment for both franchises. The Dodgers are bolstering their roster with a player who has shown flashes of brilliance, while the Athletics are investing in their future with a young pitching prospect. As the baseball season unfolds, fans will be watching closely to see how Ruiz adapts to his new environment and whether Duran can make an impact in Oakland.
