DODGERS DEAL FOR SPEEDSTER RUIZ
The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired outfielder Esteury Ruiz from the Athletics for pitcher Carlos Duran.
What does it give the Los Angeles Dodgers
In Ruiz, the Dodgers add a base stealer whose skillset is otherwise limited. Despite leading the AL in steals in 2023, Ruiz did not offer the Athletics enough at the plate or on defense to keep a roster spot the past few years. That will likely be the case in Los Angeles, too. However, Ruiz might work his way into a bench role if he performs well in the minors. He has been optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City.
What does it give the Athletics
Ruiz had not been part of the Athletics' lineup since early in the 2024 season, so they moved him for a pitching prospect here instead. Duran is a 23-year-old right-handed starter who has worked his way up to Triple-A ball to start the 2025 season. He has decent potential but will need to cut down on his walks allowed. Since Ruiz was not in the A's plans, this is a good return that improves the team's pitching depth.
Fantasy impact
This trade is unlikely to have a fantasy impact. Even if Ruiz earns an MLB call up, he will see minimal playing time on a deep Dodgers team. Ruiz's stolen bases made him valuable in fantasy leagues, but he may never see enough at-bats to have that impact again. As for Duran, keep an eye on him as he continues to develop. He has shown good strikeout ability in the minors.
