The Red Sox are looking at Jose Ruiz, a Cuban first baseman who defected, as a possible replacement for David Ortiz.
the Red Sox are still actively pursuing Ruiz as a low-cost preemptive replacement for David Ortiz, and that the interest is mutual. Ruiz is eyeing Boston, the source says, because he believes he would soon have the opportunity to take Ortiz’s spot, even if it means playing in the minors in the short term.
The team has an option to pick up Ortiz for 2011 for $12.5 millio, but Ruiz could give them some insurance if Big Papi does not produce.
Scoutingbook.com has some good things to say about Ruiz:
A pure offensive threat, the fireplug-shaped Ruiz will likely be relegated to 1B or DH duties in the USA, but his bat should be able to play at the major league level very soon. A gap hitter with decent but not great power, he has a smooth, quick swing from the left side that should allow him to maintain an average similar to the .300 he traditionally posted in Cuba.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
