Dodgers Acquire AL Steals Leader Ruiz From A's

The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired outfielder Esteury Ruiz from the Athletics in exchange for right-handed pitching prospect Carlos Duran. Ruiz, known for his speed, led the American League with 67 stolen bases in 2023 but struggled with injuries last season, playing only 29 games and finishing with a .200 batting average. The Dodgers plan to send Ruiz to Triple-A to develop further, as they see potential in him as a long-term asset and a valuable pinch-runner during the postseason. To make room for Ruiz on the 40-man roster, they transferred pitcher Kyle Hurt to the 60-day injured list. Duran, the pitcher moving to the A's, had a solid minor league season with a 3.71 ERA across three levels. This trade reflects the Dodgers' strategy to bolster their depth for a successful postseason run.