Scouting Report: Esteury Ruiz

Summary

Esteury Ruiz, acquired by the Miami Marlins from the Los Angeles Dodgers in the offseason, has returned from a left oblique strain and is making an impact in a limited role as a pinch-hitter, pinch-runner, and defensive replacement. In 17 games since his return, Ruiz has demonstrated elite speed with 7 stolen bases (5-for-5 in steal attempts early in May, 4 steals in 3 consecutive games mid-May). He's posted a .222/.222/.519 slash line with 2 home runs and 4 RBIs. However, his overall batting average remains low at .190-.222 with limited plate appearances (21 PA in first 11 games, 15-17 AB in May). Ruiz has been used strategically as a role player to provide speed and defensive versatility, with success in clutch pinch-hit and pinch-run situations.