Mon, Nov 7, 2016 at 9:45am

DODGERS SEND C RUIZ TO THE MARINERS

The Seattle Mariners acquired catcher Carlos Ruiz from the Los Angeles Dodgers for pitcher Vidal Nuno.

What does it give the Seattle Mariners
The Mariners get a little catching insurance here with Ruiz, who turns 38 next year. He is expected to serve as a backup to Mike Zunino (who is started to emerge at the big-league level late in 2016). Ruiz could start if Zunino falters again.

What does it give the Los Angeles Dodgers
In Nuno, the Dodgers get a decent left-hander capable of both starting and relieving in the big leagues. Expect LA to utilize him in relief in 2017. Moving Ruiz opens the door for Austin Barnes to win a job as the backup catcher next season.

Fantasy impact
Ruiz's best fantasy days are clearly behind him, though he might still provide a little week-to-week value in 2017 if he gets hot with the bat. Nuno has very little fantasy value, since he is not expected to be part of the Dodgers' starting rotation in 2017.

Player focus

Seattle Mariners

Carlos Ruiz C

Los Angeles Dodgers

Vidal Nuno P