MLB Trade Rumors: Justin Ruggiano Gaining Interest in Trade Market

Jul 12, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins center fielder Justin Ruggiano (20) cannot make a catch on a fly ball by Washington Nationals right fielder Jayson Werth (not pictured) in the eighth inning at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

Recently, Jason Stark wrote about the interest that several teams have in Marlins journeyman outfielder Justin Ruggiano. From the Yankees to the Rangers, there are a bunch of teams that are willing to offer something for Ruggiano. However the Marlins haven’t made it clear if they going to part ways with anyone in particular yet. However with the call ups of Jake Marisnick and Christian Yelich, Ruggiano is expendable for the last place team.

So why not trade him?

Ruggiano has had some nice highs this year but he has also had some miserable lows. He currently has a .203 batting average and is now being benched. However if you take a closer look at Ruggiano’s stats you’ll notice that maybe he needs to leave Miami in order to be better.

Here’s his Home batting slash line:

.179/.273/.231

Here’s his Away batting slash line:

.218/ .287/. 467

Plus he is batting .193 against righties and .222 to lefties.

While these numbers are not very good for the most part, Ruggiano seems to be the kind of player that needs a change of scenery. Specifically for a team that needs a right handed bat off the bench. He plays better on the road because Marlins Park is too much of a pitcher’s park for Ruggiano. He has twelve home runs this season and they have all come on the road. I mean that has to say something about his trade value. The Yankees have a severe power problem in their lineup which could be helped by Ruggiano’s bat. The Rangers have one of the best home run parks in America which could help Ruggiano get out of this prolonged slump he is in.

The trade deadline is coming and teams are trying to find the right pieces to insert onto the team in order to make the final push into the playoffs and hopefully the World Series. A good bench is very important for any playoff team and Ruggiano can provide a fourth outfielder that has shown a lot of pop in his bat against left handers.

Sure, the Marlins have said that they won’t trade anyone unless their wowed by an offer. I’ll believe that when I see it but a Ruggiano trade seems to be a very logical decision by Marlins Management. His trade value may not be so high, but teams are desperate at the deadline so they might get a steal from any deal. Which my be the best thing for all parties involved.