Atlanta Braves recall Jace Peterson, Rio Ruiz Optioned to Gwinnett

Braves call up Peterson, send down Ruiz

The Atlanta Braves made a roster move on Thursday afternoon — no, it’s the trade we’re all on the edge of our seats for.  The Braves call up infielder/outfielder Jace Peterson and will send Rio Ruiz back to the Gwinnett Braves.

Not a surprising move here, though Ruiz had a few big hits during his time in Atlanta.  The 23-year-old hit .175/.264/.288 during his 31 games he appeared in.  Ruiz got 91 plate appearances and had two homers, nine RBIs, 14 runs scored, nine walks and had 25 strikeouts.

This was a big opportunity for Ruiz, but he was not able to capitalize.  Ruiz was 0-14 in his final at-bats with the Atlanta Braves.

The third baseman was given a great chance when Adonis Garcia headed to the disabled list following finger surgery.  Garcia will be out until at least mid-August.  This injury left the door wide open for “Big River”.

Unfortunately for Big River, the emergence of Johan Camargo and Ruiz struggling at the plate and on defense, he was sent down to Triple-A on Thursday.

Peterson has done well since being sent down to Gwinnett at the end of May.  He’s hit .338 in the 17 games he’s appeared with Gwinnett.  He’s also stolen four bags and has walked 14 times compared to just 11 strikeouts.

The 27-year-old brings a lot of versatility to the Braves.  He can play any position in the infield as well as the outfield.  If his bat stays hot, he’s a key piece for the Braves to fill into the lineup or as a pinch hitter.

The move makes sense since Ruiz was struggling and Peterson was playing well.  Also no additional roster moves need to be made since Jace is on the Braves 40-man roster.

Ruiz is still a solid prospect for the Braves, but his time may be dwindling with the organization.  Not saying the Freddie Freeman move to third base will last long, but it will definitely stall any playing time for Ruiz in Atlanta.

Braves manager Brian Snitker told reporters prior to the game tonight…”Not gonna do Ruiz any good where he’s at, at his age, to sit up here & pinch-hit. Camargo’s doing well, gonna get most PT for now”.

Could the Braves try to get his bat right again in Gwinnett and try to package him in a trade?  I think that’s very possible.

In any case, I’ll be keeping my eye on Ruiz and hope he can find his confidence at the plate again. And Jace, welcome again…how about we start back up that JaceOnBase hashtag!