Report: Phillies agree to minor league deal with José Ruiz

The Phillies have agreed to a minor-league deal with right-handed reliever José Ruiz, according to a report from MLB Trade Rumors.

Ruiz made 38 appearances for the Chicago White Sox and Arizona Diamondbacks in 2023, pitching to a 5.89 ERA in 44 1/3 innings. The bulk of that work came with the Snakes, for whom he posted a 4.43 ERA between April 11 and July 23, his last MLB appearance of the season.

Ruiz will be invited to Major League Spring Training with an outside chance at a roster spot, and he fits the mold of low-profile relievers the Phillies have targeted over the past few seasons. He allowed 10 homers and 21 walks — rates of 2.0 and 4.3, respectively, per nine innings — along with six hit batters in the big leagues this season. Walks in particular have been a theme for Ruiz throughout his career.

He also averaged 96.5 mph on his four-seamer and 96.2 mph on his sinker, so the Phillies will take the kind of low-risk, high-reward chance they’ve been known to take on high-velocity relievers under Dave Dombrowski. Ruiz is out of options, as MLBTR points out, so if he ever makes the MLB roster, he can’t then be optioned without first clearing waivers.

Maybe joining the Phillies will help Ruiz, if only because he doesn’t have to face them. The team slashed .438/.591/.875 in 22 plate appearances against him in 2023. The only team he struggled with more was the Cleveland Guardians, who Ruiz faced for 10 plate appearances.

Trea Turner tied the game with this home run. pic.twitter.com/JLPXSn66G3

— Phillies Nation (@PhilliesNation) May 24, 2023

MORE FROM PHILLIES NATION

1. John Middleton: ‘I Want Bryce Harper To Always Wear A Phillies Uniform’
2. Here’s How Much The Braves And Dodgers Were Willing To Offer Aaron Nola
3. Revealed: Full Contract Details/Incentives For Aaron Nola
4. Amid Yamamoto Rumors, Dombrowski Says 2024 Rotation Is Set
5. After Re-Signing Aaron Nola, Could Phillies Look To Extend Zack Wheeler?
6. Aaron Nola Is Back, But Believes Zack Wheeler Should Start On Opening Day 2024
7. Phillies, Aaron Nola Agree To Long-Term Contract
8. Phillies Don’t Appear To Be Serious Contenders for Josh Hader
9. Phillies, Bryce Harper Reportedly ‘Expected To Discuss Potential Extension’
10. Have The Phillies Worn Their Red Jerseys For The Final Time?