PT TOMORROW: NL East—Ruf to see time in the PHI OF?

Philadelphia Phillies

Manager Pete Mackanin has said that he is considering using Darin Ruf (1B/OF, PHI) in the outfield. Though Ruf didn’t play in the outfield at all this spring and is well below-average defensively, the thinking is that he could provide an offensive spark. The team’s primary corner outfielders Cedric Hunter (OF, PHI) and Peter Bourjos (OF, PHI) have gotten off to a rough start at the plate, combining for a scant five hits in their first 36 AB. 

Given that we’re just heading into the second week of the season, this wreaks of panic. Not only would the team’s defense suffer with Ruf in left field, but it’s unclear that he would be much of an upgrade offensively against right-handed pitching (.657 OPS in 414 lifetime AB...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

This week, we make the bold case for a Rockies starter—even in Denver—and we take a peek at two overlooked NL West first basemen who deserve more attention.
May 2 2026 3:05am
Pedro Ramírez is demonstrating real power at AAA Iowa, could there be a path to MLB playing time for one of the minor's hottest hitting infielders?
May 1 2026 3:05am
Three key Twins hitters have yet to deliver on the promise they offered as prospects, and time may be running out. Plus, a closer look at Shane Smith, Daniel Schneemann, and Jack Flaherty, and the KC bullpen.
Apr 30 2026 3:05am
The Rangers offense is sputtering and a change at 2B could help kick start their offense.
Apr 29 2026 3:06am
Could Griffin Jax be the answer to the Rays' rotation depth issues? Plus, Volpe nearing a return, upheaval in Boston, and more from around the AL East.
Apr 28 2026 3:05am

Tools