Atlanta Braves: Rio Ruiz the Answer at Third Base?
By Kit Anderson
The Atlanta Braves will be looking for a third baseman this off-season. Could they find that third baseman within their own organization in Rio Ruiz?
The Atlanta Braves gave Rio Ruiz several chances this past season to prove that he is a starting third baseman. Ruiz struggled for much of the season hitting under the Mendoza line. Even with his struggles could Ruiz begin to show that he is capable of being a starting third baseman this season?
Adding a third baseman to the roster is almost a certainty for a team that doesn’t have a clear starting option. Even with that in mind Ruiz will be given every chance to earn a roster spot on the team. A team that is all about young position players and improving talent.
Ruiz had his best month of the season at the right time. He got hot the final month of the season going through several impressive stretches that showed flashes of the hitter he is capable of being but still only hitting slightly above 220.
At twenty-three years old Ruiz still has plenty of time to figure it out at the plate. Ruiz should be given every opportunity to earn a roster spot this season. The Braves should continue to plan beyond Ruiz however, adding a starting third baseman via free agency or trade.
Todd Frazier should be one option that the Braves explore this off-season along with looking at a possible trade of Martin Prado. The Braves should keep the door open for Rio Ruiz but add at least one starting option that gives the Braves options if Ruiz cannot take a step forward.