What should we think about Darin Ruf?- PIITB By JD

 What should we think about Darin Ruf?- PIITB By JD

 

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I decided to take a break from my top 10 rankings to address someone I know is on the mind of Mets fans. Darin Ruf.

 

Darin Ruf is on the top of Mets fan's least favorite players right now. We all know how last season went. He was nothing short of horrific in his 29 games. Ruf hit .152 with a .413 ops. He had 10 hits. 0 home runs. That says it all. 

 

What is interesting and somewhat annoying is his career points to great numbers vs lefties. He was supposed to be the answer as the RH DH. His career ops against lefties is .891. That drop-off is, well, significant to say the least. We all know mid-season trades are hard on players. Especially when being traded to NY. In an interview today, Ruf said he struggled with the mid-season switch. To be honest, he did not sound overly confident in handling the NY media daily. 

 

To me, Ruf is the guy fans blame for everything. I do not believe he will bounce back. However, he could not be worse than he was last year. Every team needs players’ fans get to blame for team struggles. Last year it was James McCann and later Darin Ruf. The Yankees have IKF and warning track Donaldson. You need those guys as scapegoats. 

 

With all that said, I would love to see a bounce back. Even a .700 ops would be massive. Maybe Vientos emerges as a replacement too. The Mets need some help in that regard and Alvarez is likely not starting opening day on the roster. 

 

Leave your thoughts below about Ruf and this upcoming season!

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