Keibert Ruiz

Position: C
Level: Double-A
Affiliate: Tulsa Drillers
League: Texas League
Born: 07/20/1998 (Age: 25)
Height: 6'0''
Weight: 200
B/T: Both / Right
Acquired: Signed as international free agent (Venezuela) July 20, 2014 (LAD)

Prospect Spotlight

Ruiz has been extremely young for the level each of the last two years, as the Dodgers pushed him aggressively to Double-A last year as a 19-year-old and he is back again to start 2019. On their own, his offensive numbers don’t jump off the page–though his age, position, and switch-hitting profile also play a role. His upside is significant enough to still be named to the Texas League All-Star Game this year after being a mainstay in Tulsa’s lineup in the first half.

Built thick but flexible, Ruiz’ 6-foot and 200-pound frame is well-suited for catching. He is most polished defensively, setting low and quiet targets with soft hands receiving the ball. Advanced footwork and a quick release play up average raw arm-strength. A switch-hitter, Ruiz is more of a contact hitter and more of a threat from the left-hand side of the plate. He might never be a 20+ home run threat, but given his age, body type, and loose swing, there’s reason to project some power against righties. The ceiling is an above-average backstop with 55-grade defensive tools and solid on-base ability for the position. His offensive is very oriented around contact and the hit tool, a profile that can regress under the physical rigors of catching. Even if Ruiz winds up closer to an average offensive producer for the position as the years go by, his instincts and defensive ability will make him a long-time big leaguer.