The Los Angeles Dodgers traded outfielder Esteury Ruiz to the Miami Marlins on Monday in exchange for right-handed pitching prospect Adriano Marrero. Ruiz, known for his speed, adds depth to Miami's outfield following their recent trade of Dane Myers. The Marlins designated infielder Eric Wagaman for assignment to make room for Ruiz on their roster.
The trade bolsters the Marlins' outfield options just two days after they sent Dane Myers to the Cincinnati Reds for minor league outfielder Ethan O’Donnell. Ruiz steps in as a right-handed bat and backup center fielder, filling gaps behind Jakob Marsee and alongside prospect Victor Mesa Jr. and Heriberto Hernández.
Ruiz, who turns 27 in February, provided limited depth for the World Series champion Dodgers last season. In 19 appearances, he served mainly as a defensive replacement or pinch-runner, batting .190 (4-for-21) with four stolen bases. He was not projected to play a significant role in Los Angeles' 2026 outfield plans, especially after injuries to Teoscar Hernández and Tommy Edman healed.
A former top prospect, Ruiz has been traded five times in his career, most recently leading the American League with 67 stolen bases for the Oakland Athletics in 2023—second overall behind Ronald Acuña Jr.'s 73. Over 197 games from 2022 to 2025 with the Padres, Brewers, Athletics, and Dodgers, he slashed .241/.296/.343, recording 27 doubles, three triples, eight home runs, and 77 steals, though with 134 strikeouts against 27 walks.
To accommodate Ruiz on their 40-man roster, the Marlins designated Eric Wagaman for assignment. The rookie first baseman hit .250/.296/.378 in 140 games last season, with 28 doubles, three triples, nine home runs, and 53 RBIs, starting 94 games at first base. With Miami signing Christopher Morel for first base and adding Ruiz, Wagaman's opportunities would have diminished; alternatives include catcher Liam Hicks, infielder Graham Pauley, and outfielder Griffin Conine.
In return, the Dodgers acquire 18-year-old Adriano Marrero, who signed with Miami out of Cuba last offseason. The right-hander posted a 3.82 ERA and 35 strikeouts in 33 innings over 10 starts in the Dominican Summer League.
Ruiz has one minor league option left and is not arbitration-eligible until after 2026.
