Esteury Ruiz, a name synonymous with blazing speed and dynamic potential, has captured the attention of baseball fans with his electrifying performances on the basepaths. Known for setting an American League (AL) rookie record with 67 stolen bases in 2023, Ruiz has become a player to watch in Major League Baseball (MLB).
Despite facing challenges with injuries and inconsistent offensive output, his recent trade to the Los Angeles Dodgers in April 2025 has sparked renewed interest in his career trajectory. This article delves into Ruiz’s journey, from his early days in the minors to his current status in Triple-A, while addressing the questions fans are asking about his performance, injuries, and future in the sport.
Early Life and Entry into Professional Baseball
Esteury Ruiz was born on February 15, 1999, in Azua, Dominican Republic. Growing up in a country with a rich baseball tradition, Ruiz displayed athletic prowess from a young age. His speed and agility on the field caught the eye of scouts, marking him as a prospect with immense potential. Like many Dominican players, Ruiz dreamed of making it to the MLB, and his journey began when he signed with the Kansas City Royals as an international free agent in 2015 at the age of 16.
Minor League Development
Ruiz’s early years in the Royals’ farm system showcased his raw talent. Playing primarily as a second baseman initially, he demonstrated exceptional speed and a knack for getting on base. In 2017, he was traded to the San Diego Padres as part of a multi-player deal, a move that introduced him to a new system and helped refine his skills. The Padres converted him to an outfielder, a decision that capitalized on his athleticism and allowed him to cover more ground defensively.
Ruiz’s minor league stats were impressive, particularly his ability to steal bases. In 2019, while playing for the Padres’ High-A affiliate, he stole 34 bases in 111 games, hinting at the speed that would later define his MLB career. His development continued through trades to the Milwaukee Brewers in 2021 and then to the Oakland Athletics in 2022 as part of the blockbuster deal that sent catcher Sean Murphy to the Atlanta Braves. Each move brought new opportunities for Ruiz to showcase his potential, but it also underscored the challenge of finding a consistent role in the majors.
Breakout Season in 2023: The Stolen Base King
The 2023 season was a defining moment for Esteury Ruiz. Playing for the Oakland Athletics, he appeared in 132 games, primarily as a center fielder, and led the American League with 67 stolen bases, surpassing Kenny Lofton’s AL rookie record of 66 set in 1992. This remarkable feat highlighted Ruiz’s elite speed, with his sprint speed ranking in the 95th percentile among MLB players, according to Baseball Savant. His ability to steal bases made him a constant threat on the basepaths, forcing opposing pitchers and catchers to adjust their strategies.
Ruiz’s offensive stats in 2023 were solid, if not spectacular. He slashed .254/.309/.345, hitting five home runs, driving in 47 RBIs, and scoring 47 runs. While his batting average and on-base percentage were respectable for a rookie, his power numbers were modest, and his 20 walks in 497 plate appearances indicated room for improvement in plate discipline. Defensively, however, Ruiz struggled, posting -20 Defensive Runs Saved, a metric that underscored his challenges in the outfield despite his speed.
Impact on the Athletics
The 2023 season was a difficult one for the Athletics, who finished with a 50-112 record, one of the worst in MLB history. Amid the team’s struggles, Ruiz provided a bright spot with his dynamic play. His speed not only led to stolen bases but also allowed him to stretch singles into doubles and cover significant ground in the outfield, even if his defensive metrics were subpar. Fans and analysts saw Ruiz as a cornerstone for the rebuilding Athletics, acquired as the main return piece in the Sean Murphy trade. However, his role would soon diminish due to a combination of injuries and roster decisions.
Challenges in 2024: Injuries and Limited Playing Time
The 2024 season was a stark contrast to Ruiz’s breakout 2023 campaign. Hindered by injuries, he played in only 29 major league games for the Athletics. A left wrist injury sidelined him for nearly seven weeks, and lingering discomfort forced another stint on the injured list. In late September 2024, Ruiz underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, further limiting his playing time. These injuries disrupted his rhythm and prevented him from building on his rookie success.
In the 29 games he did play, Ruiz struggled offensively, batting .200 with a .323 on-base percentage and a .271 slugging percentage in 65 plate appearances. He managed five stolen bases but was caught four times, a significant drop in efficiency compared to his 2023 success rate. The emergence of outfielders Lawrence Butler and JJ Bleday also reduced Ruiz’s role, as the Athletics prioritized players with more offensive upside.
Optioned to Triple-A
Due to the outfield logjam and his struggles, Ruiz was optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas in March 2024. His performance in the minors showed flashes of his potential. For example, posts on X from April 2024 noted that Ruiz hit .368 with a .520 on-base percentage and a .994 OPS through five games, including six stolen bases. He also hit two home runs in Triple-A, demonstrating some pop in his bat. Despite these strong performances, the Athletics chose not to recall him immediately, possibly to manage his service time and gain an extra year of team control.
Ruiz’s demotion sparked debate among fans. One X post from April 2024 questioned why the Athletics promoted a player hitting .174 instead of recalling Ruiz, suggesting the decision was driven by roster management rather than performance. Another post highlighted his .429 batting average in early April, emphasizing the frustration among fans who believed he deserved a major league spot.
Trade to the Los Angeles Dodgers: A New Chapter
On April 2, 2025, the Athletics traded Ruiz to the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for minor league right-hander Carlos Duran. The trade came after the Athletics designated Ruiz for assignment on March 30, 2025, following their claim of left-hander Angel Perdomo off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels. To make room on their 40-man roster, the Dodgers transferred pitcher Kyle Hurt, recovering from Tommy John surgery, to the 60-day injured list.
The move to the Dodgers, the reigning World Series champions with a 7-0 start to the 2025 season, offered Ruiz a fresh start. However, he was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City, indicating the Dodgers viewed him as a depth piece rather than an immediate major league contributor. The trade generated buzz among fans, with X posts speculating about Ruiz’s potential role, especially given injuries to players like Tommy Edman.
Performance in Triple-A Oklahoma City
Since joining the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate, Ruiz has shown signs of rediscovering his form. As of June 5, 2025, posts on X report that Ruiz is hitting .274 with 16 extra-base hits, 20 RBIs, 27 stolen bases, and a .791 OPS in Triple-A. Another post from May 2025 highlighted his performance over 29 games, including a .283 batting average, .403 on-base percentage, .868 OPS, and 19 stolen bases. These numbers suggest Ruiz is regaining confidence and could be poised for a call-up if an opportunity arises.
His 14.8% walk rate and 14.8% strikeout rate in Triple-A indicate improved plate discipline, addressing one of the weaknesses from his 2023 season. His 132 wRC+ (weighted Runs Created Plus) further underscores his offensive contributions in the minors, positioning him as a potential asset for the Dodgers.
Performance and Stats
Fans frequently search for Ruiz’s career stats and recent performance. As of 2025, his MLB career stats over parts of three seasons include a .243/.297/.343 slash line, six home runs, 55 RBIs, and 72 stolen bases in 181 games. His 2023 season remains his standout year, with the 67 stolen bases marking him as one of the game’s premier base-stealers. However, his defensive struggles (-20 Defensive Runs Saved) and limited power output have raised questions about his overall value.
In 2024, his limited MLB appearances (.200/.323/.271) were disappointing, but his Triple-A performance in 2025 (.274/.791 OPS) has renewed optimism. Fans are particularly interested in whether he can translate his minor league success back to the majors and improve his defensive skills.
Injuries
Ruiz’s injury history is a common topic of discussion. His 2024 season was derailed by a left wrist injury and right knee surgery, which limited him to 29 games. Fans want to know if he has fully recovered and whether these injuries will impact his speed, his primary asset. As of June 2025, there are no reports of lingering issues, and his 27 stolen bases in Triple-A suggest he remains a speed threat. However, his injury history may make the Dodgers cautious about rushing him to the majors.
Role with the Dodgers
Since the trade, fans have been curious about how Ruiz fits into the Dodgers’ plans. With a stacked outfield featuring players like Mookie Betts, Teoscar Hernández, and Andy Pages, Ruiz’s immediate path to the majors is unclear. Analysts suggest he could serve as a pinch-runner or late-inning stolen-base threat, leveraging his 95th-percentile sprint speed. His two remaining minor league option years give the Dodgers flexibility to keep him in Triple-A for development, but injuries to players like Tommy Edman could open a roster spot. An X post from June 5, 2025, noted Ruiz’s presence in Los Angeles, fueling speculation about a potential call-up.
Defensive Struggles
Ruiz’s defensive performance is a frequent point of concern. His -20 Defensive Runs Saved in 2023 and a -36% success rate added on catchable balls in 2024 (per Statcast) highlight his struggles in the outfield. Fans and analysts are asking whether he can improve defensively or if his speed makes him better suited for a designated runner role. The Dodgers, known for their player development, may work with Ruiz to refine his outfield skills, but his current role in Triple-A suggests they are prioritizing his offensive development.
Future Prospects
The biggest question surrounding Ruiz is whether he can become a consistent MLB contributor. His speed is undeniable, but his .297 career on-base percentage and defensive shortcomings raise doubts about his long-term role. The Dodgers’ acquisition suggests they see untapped potential, and their track record of maximizing player value bodes well for Ruiz. Fans are eager to know if he can replicate his 2023 stolen-base success while improving his batting and fielding. His performance in Triple-A Oklahoma City will be critical in determining his next opportunity.
FAQs
Which team does Esteury Ruiz play for in 2025?
As of June 2025, Ruiz is part of the Los Angeles Dodgers organization. After being designated for assignment by the Oakland Athletics in March 2025, he was traded to the Dodgers on April 2, 2025, in exchange for pitcher Carlos Duran. Currently, he plays for the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate, the Oklahoma City Comets.
What are Esteury Ruiz’s 2025 stats?
In the 2025 MLB season, Ruiz had limited appearances with the Oakland Athletics before his trade. He posted a .121 batting average, .171 on-base percentage, and .152 slugging percentage over 29 games. Since joining the Oklahoma City Comets, he has been working to improve his performance in Triple-A.
Why was Esteury Ruiz traded to the Dodgers?
The Oakland Athletics traded Ruiz to the Dodgers to acquire right-handed pitcher Carlos Duran. This move was part of the Athletics’ efforts to bolster their pitching staff, while the Dodgers saw potential in Ruiz’s speed and defensive skills.
What is Esteury Ruiz’s playing style?
Ruiz is celebrated for his exceptional speed, making him a significant threat on the basepaths. His agility and quickness also contribute to his defensive capabilities in the outfield. Offensively, he focuses on contact hitting and utilizing his speed to get on base.
What is Esteury Ruiz’s background?
Ruiz began his professional career after signing with the Kansas City Royals as an international free agent in 2015. He was later acquired by the Milwaukee Brewers and made his MLB debut with the San Diego Padres in 2022. He has since played for the Oakland Athletics and is currently with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization.
In Summary
Esteury Ruiz is one of the most electrifying young talents in baseball, best known for his blazing speed and game-changing base-stealing ability. While his offensive numbers dipped early in the 2025 season with the Oakland Athletics, his potential remained high prompting the Los Angeles Dodgers to take a chance on his upside. Now working to regain form with the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate, Ruiz continues to be a player to watch for fans who appreciate speed, hustle, and raw athleticism. His journey is far from over, and with continued development, he could soon return to making an impact at the MLB level.
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