Dodgers: Three options for expanded roster spots

Keibert Ruiz

The Dodgers are expected to break camp with Will Smith and Austin Barnes set to share the workload behind the plate and catching the vaunted Los Angeles pitching staff in 2020. However, if rosters are indeed expanded, most teams are likely to opt to carry another catcher if possible. With the possibility of MLB trying to cram as many games into a shorter window as possible, there stand to be fewer days off, resulting in the need for fresher legs sporting the tools of ignorance.

But what options do the Dodgers have?

Currently, Los Angeles has two non-roster invitees in camp in Jose Lobaton and Rocky Gale, and neither is a consensus option to fill an MLB roster spot. So what about a player that hasn’t seen an MLB at-bat yet.

After the 2018 season, the Dodgers made the choice to add catcher Keibert Ruiz to their 40-man roster. While the move was made to protect him against being taken in the Rule 5 draft, Ruiz isn’t your typical protection project either.

Ruiz rewarded the Dodgers with another solid season and forced his way onto top prospect lists after hitting .261/.331/.341. Entering his age-22 season, MLB.com currently has the backstop rated as the Dodgers 4th best farmhand and ranks him 73rd in all of baseball.

Given the lack of veteran experience available and the fact that Ruiz has a 40-man roster spot already (eliminating the need to open one up), it would seem only appropriate to give the young receiver a look at the biggest level and see what he has even in a short stint.