Comparing the Dodgers top five prospects to their MLB counterparts
By Jason Reed
3. C Keibert Ruiz
MLB Counterpart: Christian Vazquez
Finding a suitable MLB counterpart for Keibert Ruiz was hands down the hardest of the bunch. The switch-hitting catcher in the Dodgers organization brings such a unique skill set that is unparallel to anything in the MLB. First and foremost, switch-hitting catchers are very rare in today’s MLB.
Second of all, the one significant switch-hitting catcher in the big leagues, Yasmani Grandal, is nothing close to what Ruiz is. Ruiz is a great hitting catcher that can succeed from both sides of the plate and can easily hit .300 with 10 or so home runs. Grandal, on the other hand, is the slugger that struggles to put up a good batting average.
Thus, Ruiz’ best counterpart is another young catcher in Christian Vazquez. Vazquez may not be a switch hitter but his hitting ability is very close to where Ruiz projects to be early in his career. Last season, Vazquez hit .290 with five home runs and 32 RBIs in 99 games played.
Most importantly, though, is the relation behind the plate. Both Vazquez and Ruiz bring great fielding behind the dish and excellent framework that benefits their battery mates. Ruiz looks years beyond his age catching professional pitching, something that at the very least will get him a job in the MLB.