It's impossible to ignore the post-season contributions of one Carlos Ruiz, who prior to last season's magical run was often overlooked for his steadiness behind the plate. True, he had struggled at the plate for most of '08, but he was just one season removed from batting .259 and knocking in 54 runs. Some managers dream of that type of production at the bottom of the order.
All he's done since that one lousy season is be clutch in the playoffs. Big hits, game winning hits, blocking balls and toughing out cold, damp weather behind the plate. His career totals in the playoffs are representative of an entirely different player: .316 average, 2 home runs, 11 RBI. He works counts (12 walks, .409 OBP) and runs the bases (5 doubles, 3 steals). In the process, he's being talked about as the possible NLCS MVP, and has become the definition of "fan favorite."
Inquirer columnist John Gonzalez gets it. He wrote a piece today on the "Ruiz bandwagon," which has grown at an amazing pace even in just the past week, and describes a grassroots movement of sorts to deem the catcher Señor Octubre.
That's what happens when you morph from a good defensive catcher with inconsistent offensive skills into a playoff monster who scares the life out of your opponents. (Choochenstein? Count Choochula?) People can't wait to give you a cutesy nickname - even if you already have one.
I kinda like both of those actually. No matter what you call him, he's been undeniably great, and it's a testament to Phillies fans that the guy at the bottom of the order can earn so much praise and recognition amidst stars like Rollins, Utley, and Howard. Then again, it's a testament to Ruiz's effort too, which has never been in question.
Check out the column. Do it for Chooch.
Original Story:
http://www.the700level.com/2009/10/se...
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October 19, 2009
Go Phils!