In a notable transaction on Wednesday, the Oakland Athletics sent skilled outfielder and base-stealer Esteury Ruiz to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the current World Series champions. In exchange, the Athletics acquired minor league right-handed pitcher Carlos Duran. This move represents a strategic shift for both teams ahead of the upcoming baseball season.
Ruiz, recognized for leading the American League with an impressive 67 stolen bases in 2023—an achievement that set a new rookie record—recently found himself designated for assignment by the Athletics. Now, he is set to bolster the Triple-A Oklahoma City roster, aiming to make his mark within the Dodgers’ organization.
The announcement of the trade preceded Oakland’s series finale against the Chicago Cubs, highlighting the team’s anticipation of changes that could impact their performance in the near future.
Previously, Ruiz broke the record held by Kenny Lofton, who had set a high-water mark of 66 stolen bases with Cleveland back in 1992. Despite facing wrist and knee injuries that limited him to just 29 games last season, Ruiz underwent successful arthroscopic knee surgery last September. In his sole full season in the major leagues, Ruiz achieved a batting average of .254, hitting five home runs, 24 doubles, a triple, and securing 47 RBIs.
To accommodate Ruiz on their 40-man roster, the Dodgers transferred pitcher Kyle Hurt to the 60-day injured list. This maneuver ensures roster flexibility as the Dodgers integrate Ruiz into their lineup and prepare for the forthcoming challenges of the new season.