DENVER — For weeks (months, really) the Padres have been scouring the trade market for outfield options.
But before they make a move ahead of the Aug. 2 Trade Deadline, they’re going to get a good look at an intriguing internal option.
On Tuesday, San Diego selected the contract of outfielder Esteury Ruiz, the team’s No. 28 prospect in the MLB Pipeline rankings, from Triple-A El Paso. Fellow outfielder Brent Rooker was optioned to El Paso, and right-hander Robert Suarez was transferred to the 60-day injured list to clear space on the roster for Ruiz.
“It’s a dream come true,” Ruiz said on Tuesday, through a team interpreter, before his MLB debut against the Rockies. “Obviously, it’s something I’ve been looking forward to since I was a young kid. Getting this opportunity for my first callup — it’s a very exciting moment.”
In 77 games between Double-A and Triple-A this season, Ruiz posted a slash line of .333/.467/.560, while leading the Minor Leagues with 60 stolen bases. He fits nicely into an area of need for the Padres, who have gotten minimal production from their outfielders this year. Entering play Tuesday, the Padres’ .643 outfield OPS ranked 26th in the Majors.
Ruiz was in the starting lineup Tuesday night, batting eighth and playing center field.